Keeping the Group Focused

Keeping the group on task is considered a primary function of a group facilitator. In addition to implementing a stay-on-task ground rule, there are other tools and procedures that can help keep a group focused. One of the first things a decision-making group should decide is the desired level of agreement that constitutes an acceptable decision outcome. Deciding this first not only saves time later on but it separates the decision rule from the topic—and from emotions that might emerge from a discussion of the topic.

Decide on decision rule. A decision on the level of agreement/ commitment needed has ramifications for the type of specific technique that might be used and the time devoted to the process. If a group meets ...

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