Blog Post #8

            There are several preconditions necessary for using consensus decision making in a group or organization.  The most important thing is that the group or organization must create an environment that promotes trust and respect.  Group members must be open to new ideas, listen to other members, and criticize the action and not the person during discussion.  The members must also be aware of the group’s purpose and must find unity in this purpose.   The dynamic between group members must be cooperative and not competitive and there should be a focus on creating a nonviolent atmosphere in which no member attempts to control or dominate the group.  Finally, active participation must be encouraged.  Everyone’s voice should be heard and everyone should have an equal opportunity to voice his or her opinion during the meeting.

            One of the weakness with consensus decision making is that it can be very time consuming.  The group must reach an agreement which can take some time.  If the group is not properly structure or the preconditions for consensus decision making are not met, the entire process will likely be very inefficient.  Also, consensus decision making requires some training, which again may take some time.  There are, however, a number of advantages with this type of decision making process.  Consensus decision making promotes cooperation instead of competition among members.  The process is very democratic and as long as there is active participation, all voices are able to be heard.  Consensus decision making also builds a sense of community.  Knowing your other group members helps the decision making process run more smoothly.  Finally, it encourages the group to self-evaluate therefore further strengthening the group’s sense of purpose and also allowing for growth.