Focus Groups – among those responsible for organising public participation or consultation, their popularity is beyond question. Along with surveys and questionnaires, they are the most often quoted technique used in the public sector today. But are they always used in the right way or at the right time?

Commercial concerns use Focus Groups to understand customer requirements, to determine their priorities and preferences, and also test reactions to new or re-engineered products. Such market research can be very valuable and the insights obtained are closely guarded competitive secrets. Those who attend are thanked for their trouble, but won’t expect to hear too much after the event.

When Focus Groups are used in the public sector, and form part of a wider consultation, there are other considerations. We are all stakeholders, and if persuaded to take part in a formal dialogue, we will have legitimate expectations. There are three in particular:

? That everyone involved be honestly told the purpose of the exercise, and the policies, programmes or actions which the consultation is intended to influence.