The Consensus Decision-Making Process

Since the consensus decision-making process is not as formalized as others, such as Robert’s Rules of Order, the practical details of its implementation vary from group to group. However, there is a core set of procedures which is common to most implementations of the consensus decision-making process.

Once an agenda for discussion has been set and, optionally, the ground rules for the meeting have been agreed upon, each item of the agenda is addressed in turn. Typically, each decision arising from an agenda item follows through a simple structure, as shown in Figure 1.

Decision-Making Process
Figure 1. Decision-Making Process

Discussion of the Item

The item is discussed with the goal of identifying opinions and information on the topic at hand. The general direction of the Forum/Work Group and potential proposals for action are often identified during the discussion.

Formation of a Proposal

Based on the discussion, a formal decision proposal on the issue is presented to the Forum/Work Group.

Call for Consensus

The facilitator of the decision-making body calls for consensus on the proposal. Each member of the Forum/Work Group usually must actively state their agreement with the proposal to avoid the Forum/Work Group from interpreting silence or inaction as agreement.

Identification and Addressing of Concerns

If consensus is not achieved, each dissenter presents his or her concerns on the proposal, potentially starting another round of discussion to address or clarify the concern.

Modification of the Proposal

The proposal is amended, re-phrased, or a rider is added, in an attempt to address the concerns of the decision-makers. The process then returns to the call for consensus and the cycle is repeated until a satisfactory decision is made.