helping a group free itself from internal obsatacles or difficulties so that it may more efficiently and effectively pursue its objectives for a given situation. A facilitator is a catalyst - someone who precipitates group actions and activities without becoming integrated into the specifics of these processes.
Working with a group (or individual) to make it easier for that group (or individual) to achieve the objectives that the group has agreed for the meeting or activity. This involves listening, challenging, observing, questioning and supporting the group and its members. It does not involve doing the work or taking decisions.
Enabling activities to proceed or be complete d through encouraging compromise and acceptance and/or by removing obstacles or otherwise making the activities easier. [D02757] RMW