Consensus decision-making

A step-by-step guide to make decisions with all members of your group

This guide is also available in PDF format (in Dutch).

Introduction

Consensus decision-making is a process aimed at reaching decisions that are acceptable to all members of a group. It means a willingness to agree to a decision in the best interest of the group — even if it’s not every individual’s personal favorite. Many grassroots groups use consensus because it leads to decisions that are genuinely supported by the whole group and helps prevent power from being concentrated in the hands of a few individuals or factions. While it’s sometimes seen as slow or overly meeting-heavy, consensus doesn't have to be that way — as long as meetings follow a clear structure and are well facilitated. Having a predictable and consistent decision-making process also helps reduce confusion about what has been decided. Below is an example of a consensus step-by-step process.

Step 1: Introduce and clarify

>> Introduce and clarify the topic of which a decision need to be made.
>> Share relevant information. What are the main questions?

Step 2: Research the topic and collect ideas

1. Collect first thoughts and reactions. What is it really about and what are things people are considering?
2. Collect ideas to solve the problen - write these down.
3. Have a broad/open discussion and discuss the different ideas.
>> What are the pros and cons?
>> Start to think in solutions for the shared concerns.
>> Close some ideas and shortly write down the remaining.

Step 3: Look at the proposals that are presented

>> Look for a proposal that brings together the best elements of the previously discussed ideas.

>> Look for a solution that take the shared concerns into account.

Step 4: Discuss, clarify and finalise the proposal

>> Make sure that any remaining concerns are being heard and everyone had the chance to share them.
>> Look for additions that make the proposal more accessible for the group.

Step 5: Test for approval

Does eveyrone approve? Check the following:
>> Blocks: I fundamentally disagree with the core of the proposal that is not yet solved. We need to find a new proposal.
>> Abstains: I cannot support this proposal but do not want to stop the group from proceeding so the decision can be made without me.
>> Concerns: I have some concerns but the proposal can be approved.
>> Approval: I support the proposal and want it to be executed.
>> Consensus: No blocks, not too many people abstaining or being withdrawn? Active approval?
>> Then we have approval/consensus!

If there is no consensus, go back to step 3 to see if other proposals are presented or even to step 1 to reform the question.

Step 6: Execute the decision

>> Who, when, how?
>> Clarify the different tasks and set deadlines.

Finally

Source: Seeds For Change
Adaption by Stroomversnellers from an earlier adaption by Tractie.

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