While some of us don't have a problem with expressing what we believe in,
I'm sure we all know situations where people are not comfortable saying what
they think in front of (what might be) a hostile audience.
I have experienced in certain work situations (such as process change +
retrenchment schemes) where people are genuinely afraid of saying what they
think, although they know it should be said. Anonymity is one way of
everyone having a voice - not just those who always speak up.
I know of a consultancy in Sydney, Australia which uses what it calls a
"Grouputer" when working with groups for brainstorming sessions. The
comments all appear on each members individual terminal but with no
indication of which terminal the originated from. Groups using the sessions
have been impressed at how the situation draws ideas from people who don't
normally contribute to such things.
I do agree that there is a problem with people not having to take
responsibility for their ideas if they were given anonymously. In an ideal
world I guess there would be no fear of reprisals for saying what you think
and people might be more inclined to have the courage of their convictions.
Maria
-- "Ivancic, Maria ML" <ivancicm@msmailnt.bhpese.oz.au>