Consensus Basics

Introduction

For those needing a refresher on the consensus process, here is a wonderful explanation of the process provided by professional facilitator Tree Bressen.

Main Reasons to Use Consensus as a Decision-Making Method:

• High quality decisions
• Builds connection among members
• More effective implementation

Principles

• Cooperation is the basis (we all get more of what we want when we cooperate)
• Consensus is for people who are genuinely trying to work together, typically based on some shared interest, purpose or calling; OK if some interests are divergent, as long as sufficient joint interests are present
• "Us against the problem" we are trying to solve rather than "us against each other"
• Recognize that no decision-making system gets everyone their first choice all the time
• Consensus seeks to synthesize the wisdom of the group
• Unity (different from unanimous vote or everyone's first choice)
• "Everyone has a piece of the truth"
• Value all kinds of input (rational, emotional, kinesthetic, etc.)
• Encourages lifting everyone up to their highest potential
• Share, question, and learn from each other's experience and thinking
• Meetings should be fulfilling—if they're not, then ask why, and change it!

What Helps Consensus Work Well

• Common purpose
• Listening
• Openness to ideas, feelings and experiences of others
• Trust (some degree)
• Commitment
• Preparation: agenda planning, facilitator prep, bringing materials, etc.

Steps of the Consensus Process

1. Introduction to Issue (by presenter, preferably not the facilitator)
2. Clarifying Questions
3. Discussion
4. Establish Basic Direction
5. Synthesize or Modify Proposal as needed
6. Call for Consensus
7. Record

Decision Point Structure

• Agreement (Thumbs Up)
• Standing Aside (Thumbs Sideways)
• Blocking (Thumbs Down)