When it comes to collective leadership, simply having the willingness to work in this way is not always enough, and trying to ensure everyone is heard without systems and structures to support this aim can become messy and unworkable.
A growing number of co-ops are exploring how the governance system of sociocracy can help them to ensure those involved have a say while still getting things done.
Sociocratic organisations are made up of small, semi-autonomous working groups called circles, connected by members who ensure the flow of information between them. Roles within circles are selected via an open, transparent selection process rather than a secret ballot.
Decisions are made by consent, on the basis of “good enough for now and safe enough to try” – so rather than everyone having to agree on a proposal to move forward (consensus), there simply needs to be no major objections. During the decision making process, circle members are invited one by one to give their view – a method known as a ‘round’ – ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to be heard.
Read the rest at Co-operative News
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