Why is this a problem?
Standards work is often very technical and complex, and assumes people already know how things work. When information is too technical, it is hard for newcomers or people without a technical background to participate. Efforts to diversify participation need to recognize that people have different levels of experience and knowledge. Without proper support, many people will be left out.
Ways to address the barrier
Empower chairs and facilitators to manage conflict
Actions for Facilitating , Organizing , and Training and knowledge building
Ensure all documents are accessible
Actions for Documents
Help with information management
Actions for Workload and Facilitating
Host onboarding meetings before committee work begins
Actions for Preparing for committees
Plan for regular check-ins with new members
Actions for Preparing for committees
Provide a welcome package for new members
Actions for Preparing for committees
Provide diverse, accessible knowledge-building opportunities
Actions for Training and knowledge building
Provide guidance and ongoing support to new members
Actions for Preparing for committees