It is quite common for several local agencies,
or even several service departments
within the same agency, to pursue their
own individual consultation exercises in
isolation from each other and unaware that
effort is being duplicated. This is problematic
for two reasons. First, it is a waste
of resources. Second, it increases the risk
of ‘consultation fatigue’ among the public.
In order to avoid duplication and bring together disparate initiatives, some organizations
have developed databases of previous consultations. In some areas joint consultation strategies
are being developed by local councils, health authorities, the police and other agencies
to ensure that they coordinate their initiatives.