Exit, for example, sends a powerful signal that something is wrong, but reveals little or none of the information that voice can provide about the problem or possible remedies. 2 Individuals can express their voice by participating in decision-making. At its fullest, participation can mean consumer or citizen control. It may also be something less, such as delegated power in a specified area or a partnership between producers and consumers. Participation can also be merely a device for informing those who make decisions, a form of consultation.
Organizations can also use token participation as a means of co-optation or manipulation.
Most individuals don't have the time to participate in decision-making or to express their voice on every issue that arises. However, their views or interests can be represented by an intermediary that speaks or acts for the groups they represent. How the views of the consuming public are best represented is a major challenge in making voice effective. Consumer representatives can play various roles. These range from directing or controlling policy, exercising delegated power for defined tasks, being a partner with producers, providing advice, or participating without power as a token or symbolic gesture.