Evaluation of a Mixed Participatory Method to Improve Mutual Understanding Between Consumers and Chain Actors

Abstract

In the research project, Medialog, a mixed participatory method, was applied to improve mutual understanding between consumers and chain actors in the French beef supply chain. This article presents a mixed methods evaluation of this participatory method using a SWOT analysis. The evaluation reveals several strengths of the participatory method such as dialogue and flexibility, as well as opportunities for wider application, for example, growing interest in multidisciplinary research and public involvement. However, identified weaknesses, such as quality of participants and time-consuming nature, and threats, such as lack of interest among policymakers and competing methods, should be monitored. The participatory method is found to be suitable to study various subjects and objects, particularly related to food consumption and supply chains.