Title
Ground Rules
Abstract
Introduction & Background:
GUIDELINES FOR PRODUCTIVE MEETINGS
The following ground rules have helped make meetings more productive:
1. Participate fully. It's alright to disagree. Everyone should have the opportunity to state his or her own views, regardless of rank or other differences.
2. Work on the problem. Put other issues aside, including personalities, offices, or other differences. Show respect for each other.
3. Focus on interests, not positions. Explain why you favor a particular course of action. Invite questions so you can explain your reasons fully. Balance advocacy and inquiry.
4. Share all relevant information. Be specific. Agree on what important words mean. Discuss "undiscussable" issues.
5. Stay focused. Discuss a topic long enough for everybody to be clear about it.
6. Decide how the group will make decisions. Use a decision-making rule that generates the level of commitment needed.
Adapted from The Skilled Facilitator: Practical Wisdom for Developing Effective Groups by Roger Schwarz. Published by Jossey-Bass, Inc., 1994 and 2005.