{"id":3794,"date":"2016-11-10T16:57:48","date_gmt":"2016-11-10T20:57:48","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.managementcenter.org\/?post_type=resources&p=3794"},"modified":"2025-07-14T21:39:23","modified_gmt":"2025-07-14T21:39:23","slug":"modes-decision-making","status":"publish","type":"resources","link":"https:\/\/www.managementcenter.org\/resources\/modes-decision-making\/","title":{"rendered":"Modes of Decision-Making"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

To foster greater participation, trust, and transparency on teams, we recommend leaders develop a shared vocabulary about modes<\/em> of decision-making. Different from a decision-making process<\/em> (e.g., consensus, majority vote, individual makes the call, etc.), your mode<\/em> describes the type of input<\/strong> you\u2019re seeking from a person or group. Essentially, it tells people how you\u2019ll engage with suggestions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The decision-making spectrum we use stretches from joint mode (maximum input and collaboration), to consult, test, persuade, and tell mode (when you’re seeking less input). In each mode, you\u2019re aiming to engage or inform participants, especially those closest to the work or most impacted by a decision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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We adapted this from a similar framework created by Monitor Consulting.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Why mode matters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The shared vocabulary helps participants understand \u201cthe ask\u201d and prevents confusion about how decisions will be made. For example, a project manager might use the gradient above to clarify the purpose of a meeting: \u201cWe are viewing this as a joint decision. We\u2019ll review the three options today, take questions, and vote using our normal process.\u201d Later in the project, the same manager might meet with the team in a different mode: \u201cTo be transparent, I\u2019m in test mode\u2014I\u2019ve thought about XYZ and am leaning toward this path, and I want to see whether you think it\u2019s the right course before I decide. Is there anything else I should consider?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Being clear about your mode is a key step in fair process decision-making<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For project leaders and managers, getting clear about your mode is a choice point<\/a>. When staff routinely get asked for input that\u2019s discounted or ignored, they are less likely to feel valued and included, which leads to disengagement\u2014an experience that is all-too-often the norm for staff with marginalized identities or less power. When you\u2019re transparent about your decision mode, it sets expectations and shows you respect people\u2019s time, insight, and energy. Naming your mode is also a good time to reflect on the input you seek, from whom, and how often. Ask yourself:<\/p>\n\n\n\n