Consensus

Decision Method

Consensus

Consensus means everyone has a vote. The decision is done, when one or many are in favor and nobody is against the decision (no one voted "no" and "heavens no").

Purpose

Consensus is a collaborative decision-making process grounded in the principle of collective agreement. In this approach, every participant has a voice and a vote, emphasizing inclusivity and equal representation. The ultimate goal of reaching a consensus is to arrive at a decision that everyone can support, even if it's not their first choice. The hallmark of a consensus decision is the absence of strong opposition. This means that while not every participant may be fervently in favor of the decision, none are strongly against it, ensuring no votes of "no" or "heavens no." By aiming for consensus, groups strive for decisions that respect and incorporate diverse viewpoints, fostering unity and shared commitment to the outcomes.

Notes

Consensus differs from Unanimity and Consent.

Unanimity = everyone says Yes or Hell, Yes.

Consensus = nobody says No or Veto.

Consent = nobody says Veto.

Rules / Constraints

  • We have not yet defined rules or constraints for this decision method.

Unanimity
Consensus
Brainstorming
Fist to Five
Supermajority
Authority
Scoring
Majority
Commission
Dot-Voting
Plurality
Randomizing
Multi-Voting
Consent
Deferral
Featured
I’m Always a Bit Hesitant About Voting
I’m Always a Bit Hesitant About Voting

Voting is like water. It’s an essential ingredient for a healthy, social system; but useless and maybe even poisonous when used in large quantities.

Power Distribution in Decision-making
Power Distribution in Decision-making

We often say we find it important that we treat people equally. But is everyone really equal on your self-organizing team? Do all team members have an equal say in their discussions? You need to be aware there may not be an equal power distribution in your group's decision-making process.

Either Cheap, Safe, and Fast, or … Veto!
Either Cheap, Safe, and Fast, or … Veto!

“No” is not the same as “Heavens, No!” We use the Veto card when facing real failure: experiments that are not cheap, safe, or fast. Everything else is worth trying.

Testimonial

“Sometimes you make the right decision, sometimes you make the decision right.”

(Source: Phil McGraw)