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Consensus

In: Business and Management

Submitted By SteelyD
Words 1191
Pages 5
A bridge named consensus
Erica Davis
Team Dynamics Week 3-05-13

How do most people start their day? Maybe they have a cup of coffee first. Perhaps, they walk the dog and then re turn home to watch the news. Well it’s definitely how I start my day and like clock work a story of a nation in gridlock is broadcasted. Whether, it’s about the nations growing debt, gun control, or climate change, it is clear we are split down the middle on how to handle it all. You wonder if anyone has ever heard of the word “consensus”. Of course the leaders of our nation have, yet most if us are not sure how it works and most importantly, how it’s built. Consensus building is all about collaborating to resolve conflicts. It’s a healthier alternative to problem solving, because it involves all parties and its members to devise plans amicably. Examples of consensus building efforts include the international negotiations over limiting chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) to protect the ozone layer, or negotiations about limiting the emission of greenhouse gasses (University of Colorado, 1998). Once all members of the consensus team shared their ideas the step by step procedure can take place to resolve the matter at hand. Consensus building is not simple, but if it’s coordinated properly consensus decision making can solve dire issues that could change the world. First, consensus building is carried out by a mediator or a facilitator. The mediator or facilitator is usually someone who is part of the organization involved. The facilitator‘s responsibility is to enforce ground rules, promote communication, and bring closure to the issue. They also analyze the issue and recruit the proper people into the process. It is important that the facilitator stays neutral on the matter, because they really do not have authority over the decision within the group (Doyle and Straus; 1982).

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