Konsensusmenetelmä

Konsensusmenetelmä, often translated as the consensus method, is a decision-making process that aims to achieve general agreement among a group of participants rather than a simple majority vote. The core principle is that all members of the group should feel their concerns have been heard and addressed to the point where they can, at the very least, live with the proposed decision, even if it's not their ideal outcome. This method emphasizes discussion, negotiation, and finding common ground.

The process typically involves several stages. First, an issue or proposal is presented to the group. Then, participants openly express their opinions, concerns, and suggestions. This is followed by a period of deliberation where the group works to resolve any disagreements and modify the proposal to accommodate the concerns of all members. The goal is not necessarily unanimous agreement, but rather a consensus where no participant has fundamental objections that would prevent them from supporting the decision.

Konsensusmenetelmä is often employed in situations where broad buy-in and commitment are crucial, such as in community organizing, collaborative projects, and some organizational governance structures. It can be more time-consuming than other decision-making methods but is valued for its ability to foster stronger relationships, increase the likelihood of successful implementation, and ensure that minority viewpoints are not simply overridden. The success of the method relies heavily on open communication, respect for diverse perspectives, and a willingness to compromise.