Editing Consensus decision-making (section)

==Alternative to common decision-making practices==
Consensus decision-making is an alternative to commonly practiced [[group decision-making]] processes.<ref name="Basics">{{cite web|url=http://www.groupfacilitation.net/Articles%20on%20Meeting%20Facilitation.html |title=Articles on Meeting Facilitation, Consensus, Santa Cruz California |publisher=Groupfacilitation.net |access-date=29 August 2011}}</ref> ''[[Robert's Rules of Order]]'', for instance, is a guide book used by many organizations. This book on [[Parliamentary Procedure]] allows the structuring of debate and passage of proposals that can be approved through a form of [[majority]] vote. It does not emphasize the goal of full agreement. Critics of such a process believe that it can involve adversarial debate and the formation of competing factions. These dynamics may harm group member relationships and undermine the ability of a group to cooperatively implement a contentious decision. Consensus decision-making attempts to address the beliefs of such problems. Proponents claim that outcomes of the consensus process include:<ref name="CODM book" /><ref name="Quaker group facilitator" />

*Better decisions: Through including the input of all stakeholders the resulting proposals may better address all potential concerns.
*Better implementation: A process that includes and respects all parties, and generates as much agreement as possible sets the stage for greater cooperation in implementing the resulting decisions.
*Better group relationships: A cooperative, collaborative group atmosphere can foster greater group cohesion and interpersonal connection.