L G B T   C a m p u s   O r g a n i z i n g

overview of common decision making

Ask if there are clarifying questions,

structures.

but don't let people give their opinions

yet.

A Step by Step Guide to Decision

Making

Step 2: Discussion of the Proposal

Step 1: Define a Clear Proposal

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When people understand the proposal,

move into discussing it.  It is a good

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Sometimes people come to a meeting

idea to decide how long to spend on the

with a proposal already in mind.  This

discussion.  Ask people to limit their

is usually helpful if it can be seen as a

input so all can have a say.  Sometimes

starting point or jumping off point and

the discussion can go on an on, with

the person making the proposal is flex 

ible.  If it's an involved proposal, com 

ing to the meeting with written copies

can be helpful;

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Sometimes proposals are embedded in

a group discussion.  For example

someone might say,  I think it's impor 

tant to write a letter to the editor about

x.   The discussion can often move off

in a different direction, so it is impor 

tant to catch potential proposals and

make them obvious, such as,  Edgar

suggested we write a letter; let's decide

if we will do it.  The proposal is for us

as a group to write a letter to the editor

about x.   Sometimes it is necessary to

ask a group to turn discussion ideals

into possible proposals.  A group may

spend 15 minutes talking about how

important it is to be especially visible

on National Coming Out Day.  Some 

one needs to say,  Does anyone have

any concrete ideas/proposals on what

we could do to be more visible?;  and

Photo   1995 Alex Zaphiris

the same points being made over and

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Make sure that everyone is clear that a

over.  If you summarize what was said

proposal is being made.  If it's a com 

accurately, folks may feel their point

plicated proposal you can write down

was heard and not repeat it.  Some 

the key points on newsprint and post it

times the same people will speak more

on the wall.  Before you launch into a

than once, you can say,  let's let people

discussion of the pros and cons of the

who haven't spoken yet have a

proposal, make sure everyone is clear

chance; 

about/understands what is proposed.

6 2

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B u i l d i n g   a   H e a l t h y   O r g a n i z a t i o n