Consensus - A feeling of agreement. Originally - the harmonious working together of parts of the body. A consensus decision is a "hammered-out" decision, where everyone is permitted a say. After discussion, give and take, and compromise has occurred, consensus is reached when everyone can honestly say, "I am willing to support and implement this decision. It may not be exactly what I personally want, but given the range of opinions, the time factor, and the personalities involved, it is a good, working decision." Consensus decision making involves a cooperative effort to find a sound solutions acceptable to everyone rather than a competitive struggle in which an unacceptable solution is forced on the losers. With consensus as a pattern of decision making and interaction, group members need not fear being outsmarted or outmaneuvered. They can be frank, candid, and authentic in their interaction at all steps in the decision making process. The process of arriving at consensus is a free and open exchange of ideas which continues until agreement is reached. A sound consensus process assures that each individual’s concerns are heard, and a sincere attempt has been made to take them into consideration in the search for and the formulation of a conclusion. This conclusion may not reflect the exact wishes of each member, but since it does not violate the deep concerns of any, it can be agreed to by all.

McCarthy and Company Organization Consultant, Inc. West Linn, Oregon

This approach to solving problems in groups is an excellent guide for discussion. The model is an effective summary of several sociological methods of group decision making and problem solving. Following are the rational steps to solving a problem in a group:

1. 1. Define and Limit the Problem
   1. Define the problem specifically, try to phrase it as a question.
   2. Discuss the group’s goals, and determine the importance of the issue to the group.
   3. Identify the group’s available resources, as well as its constraints.
2. 2. Analyze the Problem and Gather Information
   1. Research the history and causes of the problem.
   2. Discuss how the problem relates to other issues with which the group is concerned.
   3. Collect and discuss relevant information.
   4. Challenge the group’s facts and assumptions.
3. 3. Establish Decision Criteria (what will make a decision acceptable?)
   1. Decide what and ideal decision would look like.
   2. Discuss what a reasonable, less-than-ideal decision would look like.
4. 4. Discuss Possible Solutions
   1. Use brainstorming techniques to produce ideas.
   2. Consider all possible solutions
   3. Identify evidence in support of and against each alternative.
5. 5. Determine the Best Solution
   1. Does the solution minimize the problem?
   2. Does the solution fit the decision criteria?
   3. Is it consistent with the facts and information gathered?
6. 6. Determine How the Final Decision Should Be Implemented

This material adapted from: Fisher, B. Aubrey. Small Group Decision Making. 3rd ed. McGraw-Hill, 1990.