Facilitating dialogue and decision-making in a family business

This study examines the influence of dialogue on decision-making within the context of a family-owned business and how to facilitate dialogue in a family business setting. Action research and case study methodology were utilized. Datawere collected during six meetings with a management team over a nine-month period. A thematic analysis was conducted on all data sets. Analysis revealed the following eight themes that described the Influence of dialogue on decision making: environment, listening, learning, values, and practice. One theme, role and responsibilities described how the researcher facilitated dialogue with the management team. The study concludes with implications for research and practice In collaborative learning and family business practice.