- Determine a random sample of the population, so that participants are representative of the wider groups in the community.
- Conduct baseline survey of opinion.
- Contact experts and politicians who may be required to inform the participants on specific aspects of the issue.
- Brief participants and dispatch written information.
- Give participants 2-4 days to compose questions and engage politicians and experts in plenary discussions.
- Record views on a particular issue before the poll begins and again at the completion of the poll.
- Changes in opinion are measured and incorporated into a report.
- DOPs are often conducted in conjunction with television/media companies.