Collaborative Decision-Making

This seven step process can be very helpful in general problem solving and conflict management situations.
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Step 1
Define the problem/clarify the issue

Often the reasons for the dispute and background are not clear. 

Step 2
Identify interest/concerns

What are the true motivations underlying the situation? Asking the question “what would that get you?” is often helpful in clarifying the interests.

Step 3
Develop options

Brainstorm options to address the interests. It is important to be creative. Go for quantity rather than quality at this point. 

Step 4
Evaluate the options using standards

Standards help provide objectivity to the evaluation of options.  Fair, affordable, workable and promote or maintain quality are examples of standards that can provide good guidance. 

Step 5
Develop a tentative solution

Based upon the application of standards, select options that effectively address the interests. Fine tune the tentative solution to determine that the problem has been resolved and interests satisfied. 

Step 6
Develop an implementation plan

Who does what, by when? This is the opportunity to determine accountability for plan success. 

Step 7
Evaluate results

After an agreed upon period of time, revisit the solution and assess the actual results.