Pitfalls to avoid

1. Bigger isn’t better. While it’s great to involve as many people as possible, deliberation works best when relationships can be formed, and people get to understand the motivations of those with different ideas. If there are too many people, that deliberative magic doesn’t happen.

2. Don’t set too many targets. While we want processes to be representative and inclusive, not everything can be a target. Too many questions on the registration form, and people won’t register. And too many targets make it hard to run the lottery. Choose around six targets, those that are most important for your process.

3. Don’t expect perfection. You may hit all your targets on your first round selection - but those who drop out are usually from the demographics that are hardest to replace. Remember that this is a process that is as fair as possible, that increases the levels of participation in the community, and offers an opportunity to hear rarely heard voices. But it isn’t going to be perfect!

4. Guide participants to the process. Once participants are confirmed, you can’t just drop things until the day of the first meeting. If you form a relationship with them before the meetings start, they’re more likely to show up and keep showing up. Call them, check that they’re comfortable, hold their hands till they get in the room.