Consensus Decision-Making
Consensus decision-making is a structured discussion format that groups of people can use to make decisions collaboratively. The fundamental concept is basically that a decision can not be made until everyone agrees. This restriction may seem impossible; but in this workshop we will learn about the structures that can make consensus work. When used well, consensus can be an amazing tool for fostering an egalitarian and empowering group dynamic; and it can also be be an incredibly efficient process! We can even apply our knowledge about consensus to our interactions with groups and individuals that don't use it at all!
details
- when: sunday, april 19th, 2009, from 2:05 pm - 3:35 pm
- to attend: Please see the info page for more information on attending any of the workshops at the 2009 Boston Skillshare.
- facilitated by: Sean Madsen
lesson plan
Presentation
• basic concepts and process work-flow
• effective facilitation techniques
• effective hand-calling techniques
• balancing structured agreements with case-by-case improvisation
• balancing compromise with accountability
• dealing with cases where compromise is not an option
• solving problems that require making a large number of small decisions
• solving problems that require deciding between a large number of discrete options
• coordinating meeting logistics
• the role of sub-committees in group structure
• consensus among geographically dispersed groups
• utilizing consensus techniques in non-consensus spaces
• when not to use consensus
Open group discussion
• questions and answers
• horror stories, and unsolved problems
• success stories, tips, and recommendations
facilitator experience
I am by no means an expert on this topic... I have been using consensus with a few different groups for a couple years. I have also consulted for other groups wanting to learn more about how to use consensus.
intended audience
Come to this workshop:
• if you've never heard of consensus!
• or if you've been using it for decades!
We will all be sharing knowledge with each other. If you attend this workshop with the intention of sharing some of your knowledge with the group, then please review the lesson plan above and come prepared to speak during the open group discussion at the end (we'll have time).