Communications can be helped by establishing ground rules up front, and allocating time for the participants to appreciate each other's values and interests. It is impossible to anticipate everything in a consensus process. By designing flexibility into the process, participants can anticipate and better handle change when it faces them. A consensus process involves learning from the perspectives of all participants. Feedback must, therefore, be continually incorporated into the process.
Flexibility is important.
The initial design may evolve as the parties become more familiar with the issues, the process, and each other. All parties have equal access to relevant information and the opportunity to participate effectively throughout the process. All parties must be able to participate effectively in the consensus process. Unless the process is open, fair and equitable, agreement may not be reached and, if reached, may not last. Not everyone starts from the same point - particularly in terms of experience, knowledge and resources.