---
title: "Treat Strong Opinions as Inquiry Signals"
source: "https://virtualddd.com/heuristics/treat-strong-opinions-as-inquiry-signals/"
authors: ["Peter Hunter", "Elena Stojmilova", "Kenny Schwegler", "Andrea Magnorsky"]
tags: ["sociotechnical systems", "adr", "decision-making process", "decentralised decision-making", "facilitating software architecture and design", "conflict management"]
type: "guiding heuristics"
question: "How should we handle strong, potentially biased opinions in an advisory forum?"
submitter: "Elena Stojmilova"
---

# Treat Strong Opinions as Inquiry Signals

Do not dismiss strong opinions, even if they seem confrontational, as they may hide valid concerns or unstated assumptions. Use questioning to unravel the reasoning behind the opinion, transforming it from a potential blocker into valuable input. This ensures all perspectives are properly considered.

## Examples

When a participant offers a strong opinion, the facilitator asks questions to understand the experience behind it. This helps to validate the decision against hidden risks.