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Most people believe that consensus is simply not possible. But think about it. The criminal justice system requires juries to come to consensus before they convict or acquit. So – consensus among strangers happens a thousand times a day in courthouses all across our country. How? Because jurors know when they enter deliberations that consensus is the expected outcome. By making consensus the goal of discussions, by focusing on common interests, and by utilizing proven processes for building agreement, most decision-making teams can develop consensus both inside and outside their immediate circles.

Having safe and comfortable means for every member of a team to make a contribution is the cornerstone of consensus building, as is a base of solid information about various interests. That’s why the assessment phase and those stakeholder surveys can be so invaluable. Before going into a planning retreat or facilitated meeting, let Creative Option C put your group on the path to consensus by surveying members for their views. We can then create the processes that will lead to decisions that are visionary, can be implemented, and have maximum buy-in from all participants.

C is for Consensus

Blueprint for the Clean Ohio Fund