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DECISION MAKINGDecision making is a critical part of the problem-solving process. In a group, individuals need to feel that their voice has been heard so that they can "buy" into the groups decision. The method you use to reach a decision for or with your group will determine the support for that decision later on, whether it was a good one or a bad one. ConsensusLets consider a possible decision-making situation. At the end of the year the photography club finds it has an unexpected surplus of $500. The club is split between holding an end-of-the-year picnic or investing the money in needed equipment for the dark room. The club president believes in the "democratic" tradition and puts the matter to a majority vote to resolve the conflict. This may be democratic, but it is not effective leadership. Group decisions made by voting are win/lose situations and are detrimental to group productivity. A decision that leaves a little more than half of the groups members winners also leaves a disgruntled minority of losers. This leads to tension in the group, and decision making becomes competitive within the group. Win/lose situations interfere with listening; decrease sensitivity to other members; destroy creativity. A better approach to the voting problem is a win/win situation, a technique called consensus. The group members, after a thorough discussion, agree on one or more alternatives. An individual member may not see the final decision as his or her favorite, but it is a good one that he or she will be able to live with and support. Achieving a Win/Win Situation:
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Home Site Index Search Feedback Guestbook Syllabus Written Assignments Outside Lab Assignments What is Leadership? Self Concept Parliamentary Procedure Leadership Ideas Win/Lose Power What is an Advisor? What is a Program of Activities? Effective Youth Organizations Selecting/Electing Officers Officer Guidelines Send questions about this website to Denise Davies at ddavies@ag.arizona.edu. For course information or questions not included in these pages contact Dr. James Knight. Copyright (c) 1998 Department of Agricultural Education, The University of Arizona. Website version 1.2, last updated on Thursday, August 16, 2001. |