What principle is emphasized in the development of consensus-based documentary standards?

The principle of informed participation is crucial in the development of consensus-based documentary standards because it ensures that all stakeholders involved in the process understand the context, implications, and technical details surrounding the standards being created. Informed participation encourages diverse input and perspectives, which leads to a more comprehensive and widely accepted set of standards. This principle is rooted in the belief that those who are affected by the standards should have the opportunity to actively engage, provide feedback, and contribute to the decision-making process. This level of engagement not only fosters inclusivity but also enhances the legitimacy and effectiveness of the standards being established, as they are shaped by the collective knowledge and experiences of various contributors.

In contrast, the other options—monetary benefits, secrecy of processes, and public accessibility—do not capture the essential nature of consensus-building, which fundamentally relies on open dialogue and informed contributions from participants.