3.2.2.7 Making the commitment

Exploratory meetings should give people the opportunity to get to know each other better, as well as to have adequate time as a group to discuss the work and how to do it. A meeting has probably been successful if it has (a) helped participants to understand the size of the task they are considering, (b) given them a chance to reflect on their own possible commitment to the process, (c) helped them to understand the need to work collaboratively, and (d) demonstrated the need for an editorial base.

An opportunity should be given for people to go away, think about it, and respond to a deadline, indicating the ways in which they want to contribute. The people who do respond and show an active interest and practical ways to help are likely to form the basis for the Group to develop.