Quick systemic consensus is a decision making technique that aims to quickly identify the option with least resistance for group - preferably none at all. It is designed for meetings where peoples time is at a premium; Less urgent decisions can be done online or at a separate, specific meeting. This 4-minute-reading guide aims to provide you the basics on how to participate in a meeting where quick syscon is in use.
Voicing a proposal
If during the meeting you have an idea that you'd like the group to adopt, clearly state it beginning with "I propose we ...". This signifies you have a complete idea that you think is a good idea. If you're just looking for opinions, instead ask "What do you think about ...?"
Expressing resistance
If someone has made a proposal, you will be asked to express if you have any resistance towards it. This is simply done by raising one hand - you do not need to have a reason or even an alternative proposal to express resistance.
No resistance
If no one raises a hand to indicate resistance, someone will read it out and it becomes the group decision.
Resistance → Quick syscon
If just one hand is raised to indicate resistance, Quick Systemic consensus begins. Someone will start forming the ballot - a list of options to decide from. The original proposal will first be recorded, the topic will then be summarized based on that proposal and two control options will be added:
- Passive solution: the decision to keep things as they are. This solution is often "It's not clear".
- Deepen process: the decision will be continued outside the meeting using a deeper process, Online systemic consensus unless specified otherwise.
Next you will be asked if you have any further proposals to add. If you do, clearly state them. Please limit dialogue here to amending or removing your proposal(s), asking others to clarify their proposals if unclear, responding to requests for clarification, providing concise information or stating a short, personal opinion - especially do not discuss proposals.
Once all proposals have been collected you will be asked to rate the proposals based on how much you resist them. Each proposal will be read out in turn and you will be asked to rate after each - this is done silently using your hands:
- No resistance (0) - keep both hands in your lap (I love it, like it or have no problem with it)
- Some resistance (1) - raise one hand clearly, keep your other in your lap. (I have some problem(s) with it)
- High resistance (2) - raise both hands clearly. (I really do not want this option)
The option with least cumulative resistance (based on the numerical values) becomes the group decision. If there is a tie, the tied options will be read out and rated again based on enthusiasm (raised hands meaning 'I like it!')
Back to meeting
The decision will be announced and the meeting will continue where it left off.
Tips
- Make use of the more informal meeting dialogue to get the information you need to create a good proposal before you voice it: Once voiced, the formal process will begin until completion.
- The clear expression of a proposal is as important as the proposal content - if people don't understand, they will be resistant.
