From time to time you will all see simplistic definitions of the term ‘consultation’. You know the sort we mean. ‘Listening to people’s views’ is typical, or ‘Asking stakeholders what they think of our proposals’.

Those who have attended Institute courses will know that the defining characteristic of a proposed consultation is that it should influence a decision, a policy or maybe a programme. So, unlike much market or social research, the whole point of consultation is to influence the decision-makers. If there is nothing to influence, there is no point in having a consultation!