Participants fill dots on Dotmocracy sheets to record their opinions and optionally write comments.

The basic rules for Dotmocracy are as follows:

A Dotmocracy sheet should only be removed from the dotting process according to the recognized facilitators' judgment.

Participants write ideas on Dotmocracy sheets.

Recognized Dotmocracy facilitators are authoritative and responsible for the Dotmocracy process but neutral on the content.

Dotmocracy is generally facilitated within a large meeting, but can also be conducted outside of meetings using a Dotmocracy wall where Dotmocracy sheets are posted on a wall with an open invitation for participation.