Consensus

The concept of consensus is quite familiar in the political sphere. When the President or the Vice-President is to be elected, it is felt that keeping in view the dignity of these high offices, they should not be made objects of controversy and the decision should be unanimous. A few names are come and some kind of consensus about the person acceptable to all the parties is arrived at. That person is elected the President. This is how a clash is avoided. In the commercial field also, it is felt desirable that when the board meeting is held, decisions should be arrived at through consensus. It simply means that the majority of people subscribe to a particular view, which all the members are willing to accept in the larger interest of the organisation. Consensus involves consultation. The chief executive plays a very significant role in enabling all the members to arrive at a consensus. He collects all the facts and information that might have a bearing on it. The views of the members are carefully listened too. In the light of this discussion the solution most likely to be accepted of a problem and is put forward and a kind of decision is arrived at. It is largely depends upon the chief executive whether he will allow the discussion just to fritter way into trivialities.

Disadvantages of consensus
1. One obvious disadvantage of the consensus process is that a member is forced to subscribe to a view he does not hold. If dissents are all the time being stifled in the name of consensus, discontent keeps on simmering below the surface and may at some time erupt rather violently.
2. Very often, the process of consensus becomes an accommodation of interest. A might keep quite in the interest of B and then expect B to suppress his dissent when A’s own interest is involved. This is, in fact, conspiracy in the name of consensus.
3. if decisions are taken through consensus after holding consultations among that subordinates, the letter may get a feeling that their superiors are incapable of taking independent decisions. They may loss respect for them and their confidence in their ability and competence may be shaken. They may also begin to assume airs.

Advantages of consensus
1. Since the decisions are taken after consultation among various members, they find it easy to accept them. The consensus process is often used to bring about agreement between the managements and the trade unions.
2. Consensus helps to project an image of unity and harmony in the organisation. The employees develop confidence in their superiors and their morale is considerably raised.
3. Unnecessary and undesirable conflicts and splits are avoided.