MFI consultants use The Institute of Cultural Affairs' Technology of Participation® method of facilitation. This method fosters collaboration and consensus in a effort that strives to meet the all the needs of all the parties. When consciously and effectively chosen by all team members, collaboration effectively reduces the amount of conflict in a team environment.

Collaboration builds relationships by finding integrative solutions that incorporate the feelings of all team members, thereby making solutions reality-based. Being able to disagree, while at the same time affirming the other’s competence results in reduced criticism among parties and an increased willingness to listen to others’ ideas and to incorporate those ideas into the analysis and solution of the problem.

Collaboration is a dance—a conversation where people move with each other. When you collaborate, each party explores other options and struggles with potential solutions even when you don’t feel like it. You do not give up your self-interest; you integrate it with the other’s self-interest to reach agreement. Collaboration doesn’t end until all parties are satisfied and in agreement with the solution. Collaboration fosters respect for and by all individuals involved.