It is a non-binding process which brings together parties who have an interest in a particular public issue. The parties, either directly or through the use of a neutral third party, work to clarify issues, exchange information and develop new policy options. A policy dialogue is a less formal way of developing rules than negotiated rulemaking. Written protocols may be non-existent or minimal. The goal is not necessarily to reach consensus, but rather to achieve a certain comfort level among the parties as a result of the discussions.
Several conditions are essential for a successful policy dialogue.
There must be definable public interests in order to encourage participation from parties with a strong interest in the defined issues. The decision makers of the interested parties and the agency must participate in or at least fully support the policy dialogue. There must be sufficient incentives and time to negotiate. Clearly, there must also be a willingness to negotiate. A policy dialogue is most effective when used early in the process, before positions polarize, emotions heighten, and before costly, seemingly endless lawsuits begin.