The context for the decision will determine how the decision will be made and the solution accomplished. Re-examine existing relations with politicians, agency and department heads, and influential people on national, state, and local levels. Work within the context to determine how to communicate and what can and can't be done. Identify the Showstoppers If a dragon coughs, it doesn't mean he is going to eat you. Putting you in the stew pot and lighting the fire might.
Showstoppers are issues, concerns, needs, or values that are worth stopping the process now.
Recognize that the solution won't please everyone completely. If a showstopper is really worth stopping the process, document the situation and then fall back and regroup. Otherwise, keep track of potential showstoppers throughout the decision, implementation, and followup. Demonstrate how these showstoppers were addressed and resolved and then document how you followed through on those resolutions. Sharing this with the affected publics, decisionmakers, and other participants can forestall or avoid court battles and build support for your solution.