We have all experienced the good effects of dialogue when we openly and thoughtfully confront issues that we are facing. We have also experienced the pain of interminable discussion in larger groups when nothing is accomplished. Co-Laboratories of Democracy enable large diverse groups to dialogue and generate positive results.

Many group processes engender enthusiasm and good feeling as people share their concerns and hopes with each other. Co-laboratories go beyond this initial euphoria to:

• Discover root causes;
• Adopt consensual action plans;
• Develop teams dedicated to implementing those plans; and
• Generate lasting bonds of respect, trust, and cooperation.

Co-laboratories manage this with respect for the autonomy for all participants. They utilize an array of consensus methods including discipline, technology, and graphic products that allow stakeholders to control the content of their discussions.

Co-Laboratories are explained in this document at Co-Laboratories of Democracy [hyperlink]. They are also explained in depth in the book: Co-Laboratories of Democracy: How People Harness Their Collective Wisdom to Create the Future (Information Age, 2006).