A key transition to make in consensus process is from idea generation and discussion to proposal generation and discussion. At a certain point in the process, if the outcome is to create a decision, a good approach is to draw together ideas into a proposal that the group can then begin to focus on and adjust. A proposal is a concrete statement which provides a suggested solution or plan of action. Sometimes discussion about an agenda item can be jump started by using a proposal. Or, after a good discussion, the group needs to focus on specifics of a solution and so the facilitator or group members can try to summarize the discussion into a proposal for action. An effective proposal gives group members as complete a picture of the issue as possible, without being too long and complex.
Some elements that proposal can address:
· An overview which describes why this item is important.
· Goals you want the proposal to achieve.
· A description that details what the item is about and its history.
· A list of pro’s and con’s.
Once a proposal is introduced (and ideally it should be handed out well before the meeting so people have enough time to think about it), a listing of issues and concerns can be brainstormed and worked through, discussion can happen about the issues and concerns, and a new, modified proposal can be drafted. Once sufficient discussion occurs you may want to generate several alternative proposals and see if any of them work for the group. Often, by combining elements of multiple proposals, the end result is found.
Sometimes starting a discussion with a proposal can lead the group astray by starting at a particular place which may exclude other ideas or options. It can be helpful to introduce a proposal as just a starting place to get discussion going on the issue, rather than finished thinking about the issue.
A common way consensus groups use proposals is to have the group work through a discussion on ideas on an issue, list the concerns, issues and fears and then ask for ideas for proposals that cover one or more issues. For example if the list of issues contains 6 items, have the group generate proposals for one item, then another, then another. Then see how to combine them. As discussion on a subject is winding down, concerns have been aired and discussed, call for a proposal. It may be useful to have a break after the discussion to let people mingle more, then after the break call for proposals for consideration.
A fast way to generate proposals in a large group is to subdivide the group into smaller teams, and then have each team work on a proposal. Then merge the teams into larger teams of 6-8 and have them compare proposals, and merge them or recreate them into a proposal that all the members support. Keep merging subgroups until you are one big group again.
One common mistake in using proposals is generating proposals too soon. The best time to start looking for solutions will vary with each issue but the key elements that need to precede proposals are problem identification and adequate discussion time. You definitely want to create a goal statement with each proposal so you are sure your solutions solve the correct problem. Holding adequate discussion means getting out as much information, fears, concerns, and issues as you can identify before trying to create solutions. Obviously if key information, or important concerns are missing from the dialog, the solution the proposal generates may not work very well.
A good proposal covers several areas, the objective, the body, pros and cons, and issues, ideas and comments.
1. Objective to be achieved
State the goal or
purpose of the proposal. Define what it is the proposal is trying to
accomplish.
The goal of the rental policy is to ensure that the population of our community stays under 50, and that the process for choosing and removing renters is clearly defined.
2. Proposal Body
Put the text of the
proposal here.
The total number of renters will be defined by subtracting the number of owners from 50.
Each renter must be approved by the board.
The board can remove any renter with 30 days notice.
Renters may not have outdoor pets.
3. Pros and Cons
List the pros and cons
of the proposal as they are known. The proposal’s of the issue should think
through this and at least make a first stab at pros and cons.
|
Pros |
Cons |
|
Board controls renters rather than landlord, this keeps self interest from undermining policy. The number of renters is finite and defined A renter can be removed if they cause problems Renters pets are not allowed outside, contributing to our pet problem. |
Board is too busy to do this well The landlord has to submit each proposed renter to the board. The rental spot can’t be filled until after the board meets and this will require special board meetings. |
4. Ideas/Comments/Issues
This is a list of what
you hear from other members. It can come from posting the proposal, our routing
it around or just from conversations as they happen. Its best to have peoples
name attached to their comments.
Susan: I like it, I want to have community control over renters.
Bill. What about a renter who causes a big problem, do we have to wait thirty days to remove them?
Alice: I think every renter needs to be introduced around, like at meetings or something so we know who they are. Maybe a special welcome committee task?
Selena: Maybe we should more clearly define who a renter is? Does this include family members that move in?