Whether your goal is to promote discussion or capture data, Audience Response is the tool for you. The Audience Response System allows you to identify specific groups in your audience, allowing you to identify their needs. Using demographic slides in your presentation can be a powerful tool in understanding why your audience feels the way they do, on a given issue. For example, if you were to ask the group how important "on-site" child care is you might find that overall, the group is neutral. However, if you then filter the results based on gender, you might find that for female employees it is "very important" whereas for males, it is "not at all important."

During the session, a number of different types of “Result” graphs may be displayed. The facilitator should draw conclusions, or lead the group to an understanding of information presented.

For opinion questions, each graph represents of the degree of consensus on a given issue. When these results are displayed, it typically leads participants to further thoughts. The graphic is an ideal springboard for open discussion and a deeper understanding of the issue, but there must be an understanding of the graph itself. Creating interaction in the session is beneficial to the group as a whole. The graphs display how the group feels and the ensuing discussion indicates why the group feels this way.

Asking provocative follow-up questions is a simple way to promote discussion. When the graph shows opposing viewpoints, ask the group why such a difference in opinion exists. In the beginning of the session, people will be less likely to speak up. After the session gets rolling, it’s often difficult to stop them. If you feel the session is getting off track, a good approach is to ask an impromptu question. “Is this issue relevant, Yes/No”. If “No”, move on.