The Health Canada Policy Toolkit for Public Involvement in Decision
Making
Level 5 Technique:
Think Tanks
What Is It?
Think tanks bring together creative thinkers to develop innovative
solutions to current issues and problems. Although most often used
for public policy and planning, think tanks have become a common
technique when creative solutions and out-of-the-box thinking are
needed in non-governmental organizations and private-sector organizations.
Think tanks can range in scope from:
- a small gathering for a few hours, during which day-to-day
issues are set aside so participants can focus on bigger, often
more future-oriented discussions, to
- a large professional organization operating yearround with
a number of policy-oriented staff, associates and consultants
who contribute innovative solutions and recommendations to societal
problems and issues (e.g. C.D. Howe Institute and Institute for
Research on Public Policy).
How It Works
Participants are selected for their knowledge and expertise, creativity,
ability to synthesize and analyse information, and prepare cogent
recommendations. Success of any think tank is dependent on the
selection of participants, ensuring a balance between expertise
and creativity. Considerations include what is and what is not
possible and a willingness to move beyond current thinking and
boundaries as necessary.
Most think tanks provide some background reading or questionnaire
to ensure that participants have a common base of knowledge and
have done some thinking about the content of the think tank. Pre-meeting
preparation is usually essential if complex issues are to be presented,
discussed, analysed and synthesized into recommendations within
a reasonable time frame.
Beginning with a clear statement of purpose and desired outcomes
is critical so that all participants know what is expected of them.
Often, a review or update of information is presented, prior to
participants beginning the process of discussing, analysing, synthesizing
and creating recommendations.
When Is It Most Useful?
A think tank is a useful technique when:
- innovative solutions are needed for public policy problems
- issues are complex and interdependent
- current solutions no longer work and different thinking is
needed
- there are scholars and thinkers with both insight and expertise
to assist government in improving public policies and programs.
Logistics and Limits
An independent facilitator is preferred as the process guide,
leaving everyone else the opportunity to participate in the content
of the think tank.
Cost Implications
Cost depends on the length and location of the think tank and
number of participants. Costs include travel, accommodation, per
diem, facilitator expenses, and hosting expenses, such as meeting
room costs, hospitality, audio-video rental and ground transportation.
Some experts may require a fee for service for preparing pre-meeting
information or presentations at the think tank and other participants
may require compensation for forgone wages.
Timelines
Think tanks usually run for a relatively short period of time
(e.g. half a day to three days), depending on the topic and desired
outcome.
Potential Pitfalls
- Lack of preparation
- Not establishing a knowledge base on the subject before commencing
- Clear statement of purpose is not defined
- Expert opinion cannot be relied upon to represent the broader
public's views
- Outcomes may be influenced by expert biases.
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