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CHAPTER 3 What Are the Basic Steps?

There are many approaches to consensus decision making, some more complex than others. The following five-step model works well for most decisions.

Step One: Define the Issue

The group first explores the issue or problem it is attempting to address. This phase often involves presentations of related history and background facts. The group’s goal during this phase is to develop an informed, shared understanding of the issue and the facts surrounding the issue.

During each step of the consensus process you will find that thoughtful questions can do a lot of the “heavy lifting” for group members. These questions will help the group clearly define the issue:

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THE CONSENSUS PROCESS

  • Why is this issue ...

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