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.