Decision Making Processes

Consensus - A Definition

Consensus has been reached when all members of a group can agree on a single solution or decision, and each can say:

• I believe that you understand my point of view.
• I believe that I understand your point of view.
• Whether or not I prefer this decision, I will support it because it was reached openly and fairly.

In order to achieve consensus...

• Time must be allowed for all team members to state their opposition and state it fully enough to get the feeling that others truly do understand them.
• Careful listening by all members to people expressing viewpoints different from their own is imperative.
• Avoid arguing for the sake of "getting your own way".
• Avoid changing your mind for the sole purpose of avoiding conflict.
• Avoid compromising techniques: i.e. majority vote, averaging, power plays, coin flipping, etc.
• View differences of opinion as natural and helpful rather than as hindrances.
• Be suspicious of initial agreement.
• Verbally test for consensus by going around the table; silence or a few head nods does not necessarily mean consensus.

When to use consensus...

• For a group process or procedural decision pertaining to how the group operates.*

From: Giving complete authority to formal leader.
To:     Decision by unanimous consent.

• In situations where effective implementation of a project requires the commitment and support of all group members.

* Unfortunately this kind of decision is most often make by a minority, costing the group untold hours of wasted effort because of lack of genuine involvement, low morale and lack of clarity in communication.

Consensus decision making can yield...

• Improved quality of decisions  
• More minds
• More information
• More credibility
• More confidence

• Improved ownership of decisions
  • More people involved
  • Wider commitment
  • Greater support
  • Higher potential for successful implementation.