Answer: We have always talked about win/win negotiations (i.e., cooperative problem solving) as a process that will, all things being equal, result in better decisions than using other negotiation models. It is often difficult for those involved in the content of the discussions during such encounters to focus on such issues as employing the rules of brainstorming, or not interrupting someone when talking. And yet, those are exactly the types of errors that can transform cooperative problem solving into a more contentious activity.

The facilitator is someone who is committed to the process. His or her job is to help the group make the decision. As a consequence, the facilitator will enforce certain rules that will help prevent the process from breaking down.

Whether using a facilitator is more important than other techniques that help a group reach consensus is not a question I could answer; however, it is certainly an important resource and one that I would most often want to use when trying to work together.