Decision Making Process for Teams
Every team needs to agree upon a decision making process and practice so that decisions can be made fairly and collectively.
To make any other working agreements or group decisions, a group decision making process is needed first. Doing so allows efficient decision making and a clear structure for making changes once a decision has been initiated.
Step 1
Decision Making Process
1. Bring an idea or problem to the group
2. Allow room for everyone to bring up concerns, amendments, or idea
3. Determine whether to table decision until more work can be done, or amend the proposal in the meeting to meet all concerns and vote
Step 2
Discussion
1. Brainstorm & Discuss individual’s perspectives
2. Note taker is essential in this process and can ask for clarification
3. Allow for critique of an idea
4. Share the mic
Step 3
Proposal
1. Bring up a new solution/decision as a “proposal”
2. Use “I propose” statement
3. Proposals require deliberation
4. Any concerns, strengths, or weaknesses should be discussed about “proposal”
Finalize “proposal” with group consensus
5. Strawpoll: How many folks are a YES now?
6. Revise: Depending on the level of concerns:
7. Proposee:
Can address them right away
Meet with folks individually to get a better understanding of the needs and co-create solutions
Can take in that feedback and bring it forward for next time
Step 4
Vote
1. If all YES, vote now and ratify the agreement, decision in the notes
2. If there is urgency and unanimous consensus can’t be reached, consider:
Is this actually urgent? Is it worth moving forward without consensus?
Is there a way to amend the proposal or experiment with a proposal for a short period to get feedback on how it works
Last choice: Vote using super majority vote
Step 5
Review and Feedback.
1. Monitor choice for review and feedback
2. Make alterations as needed to make the choice fit the needs of people or goals better