A consensual agreement is reached by identifying the interests of all concerned parties and then building a solution that satisfies as many of the interests as possible. The process does not involve voting, but rather a synthesis and blending of solutions. Consensus does not mean unanimity, in that it does not satisfy participant s interests equally, nor that each participant supports the agreement to the same degree. Consensus is considered to be the best decision for all participants in that it addresses, to some extent, all interests. In the process of facilitation, one or more people are chosen to help group members work through a conflict.
Facilitators help increase the exchange of information and promote effective decision-making.
Facilitators may, or may not, be a member of the group. The process allows for input from a wide range of interests and individuals with the assistance of an impartial facilitator or mediator to keep the discussions focused. This process is especially useful for government agencies that must publicly explain statutory mandates, while hearing the issues and concerns of the public. This assessment and redesign process involves the study of the conflict management procedures of a particular agency, organization, or group. Careful review of these procedures may reveal strengths and weaknesses.