It is used to broaden understanding of an issue early in the process. It is used when people from different walks of life are all working on a common project. Role playing is used as an ice-breaker at regular committee meetings. If participants' thinking is changed through role playing, they are more likely to accept opinions about a variety of issues. As a result, later public involvement efforts are easier and more productive.
Participants come to see that their opponents' views can also change.
Role playing requires significant time and skills, primarily for preparing scenarios and roles, taking dry runs, and conducting the exercise. A consultant can be expensive, particularly when briefing is needed. This expense, however, is offset by time savings in reaching an understand ing of the problems and constraints. A consultant may also train agency staff people to plan and conduct future role playing sessions on their own. Participants may be uncomfortable playing roles that negate their true feelings.