Table 5 Key facilitation activities identified by facilitators

Identifying a 'qualified' leader

'...you've got to have the right person with the right knowledge'; '...you really have to pick the right leader otherwise you could spend a lot of time and develop a guideline that just wouldn't be all that useful'; someone who has 'charisma' and 'street credibility.'

Increasing awareness of and helping overcome resistance to change

'They don't want to go there because maybe they're afraid a bit about guidelines. And what they really are and you know, who's going to be using them and who's going to be writing them, et cetera...by trying to be positive and supportive and inclusive, gee people are buying in and saying 'this is fantastic, this is great.'

Gathering information and assembling/distributing reports and materials

'...making sure people got all the appropriate materials'; '...one of the most important things is just getting the information out to the group...'

Networking

'...making sure you have people that you can call if there are issues.'

Maintaining momentum and enthusiasm ('cheerleader')

'...the coaching and the keeping people motivated and kind of carrying the enthusiasm when it starts to lag a bit because the work can be a real grind.'

Ensuring group remains on task (and things are not missed)

'...getting your group together properly.'

Keeping group members informed

'...all the right people were informed.'