Why May Consensus Be Desirable?

Consensus provides the potential for more creative solutions depending on the extent to which each party can identify with the interests of  other parties.

• Creates more durable and lasting solutions.
• Risk of future undermining of the decision is diminished.
• Builds commitment to implementation on the part of all involved – all participants share responsibility for success.
• Enhances the development of new partnerships and maintenance of valued relationships.
• Increase respect among participants.
• Improves understanding and tolerance of each affected person’s interests – dialogue between equals.
• Builds a sense of community unity instead of a collection of disparate individuals.
• Eliminates win-lose competitive outcomes; decisions are win-win.
• Provides regular opportunities to voice dissent – empowerment in the process.