Group Facilitation:

Sometimes groups need someone to “take the reins” and help them with the tasks needed to run a productive, creative meeting. The facilitator is an impartial moderator who helps participants use creative problem solving techniques and constructive discussion in order to reach consensus or move together to improve the future of the group. Resolution of conflict is not the primary purpose of a facilitated meeting; however, when designing the process the facilitator may ask the group “If conflict arises how would you like me to handle it?”

It is the job of the facilitator to design and run a successful and productive meeting. Including in this may be promoting constructive communication, information exchange, learning and collaborative negotiation. However, as mediation may focus on the outcome (settlement), facilitation focuses on the process so that parties can work well together.

Prior to the meeting:

The facilitator will find out the purpose and goal of the meeting, design the facilitation model that is appropriate to the group goals, work closely with meeting organizers to make practical arrangements including room set up, develop ground rules, draw up a draft agenda, make sure that everyone necessary to the success of the meeting is present. The facilitator may also make sure that everyone gets fully briefly for the meeting regarding purpose and goals.

The process:

The facilitator may start with “Why are We Here?” (Introduction), Who are you? (Trust building) And “What are we going to do?” (Goal setting).

During the meeting: The facilitator will monitor the agenda so that the group stays on task, keep time, manage the discussion by enforcing ground rules, encourage participation from all members of the group, help the participants solve problems creatively, as well as keep the meeting safe in order to foster and encourage open, honest dialogue as well as record agreements.

After the meeting:

The facilitator may write agreements or summaries of the meeting.

Why call us?

Partners In Mediation, Inc. has extensive experience in small and large group facilitation. We are available to design the type of facilitation that will be productive and appropriate for your group.

For more information about Group Facilitation please call Partners In Mediation, Inc.

Mediation: An idea who's time has come