benefits and outcomes of
the rich voices e-consultation method

It is possible to reach a much greater number of people and a much wider diversity with the rich voices e-consultation method, than with traditional consultation methods.

• Because the conferencing is asynchronous, contributions tend to be more considered and relevant than they would be in a real-time discussion. Participants choose the time and the place of their contribution, and their contribution is simply valued for its content and relevance to the group aim.

It is not necessary to for participants to possess their own computers. Participants are helped to locate convenient internet access in community centres, libraries, colleges, schools or cafés, or teamed up with other local people with access.

• We do not assume that everyone has the know-how and the incentive to come to our websites to take part in surveys and e-consultation. The rich voices method goes direct to the people with whom you want to consult and offers them training and internet access in return for their time and experiences. This ensures a measurably diverse spread of respondents.

Online training in the use of email conferencing is given, resulting in the acquisition of new skills and the encouragement of the formation of new networks through which local communities can exchange information after the consultation process is complete.

• The process of learning to work in virtual teams also encourages the formation of group identity resulting in a greater confidence in the ability to achieve identified goals.

Individuals who particularly enjoy the consultation process and show an ability to facilitate and moderate group discussion can work as trainers and leaders in future consultation processes.

• At the conclusion of the rich voices e-consultation process considered and workable proposals can be achieved, rather than a simple list of preferences or priorities. Local people's unique and extensive knowledge of their problems and possible solutions can be tapped into and used to build a better future for all concerned.