The opinions of all interested parties are encouraged and acknowledged. Differences are viewed as helpful. Everyone has an opportunity to express feelings about the issue. Those who disagree express a willingness to experiment for a certain period of time. All members share the final decision.
All members agree to take responsibility for implementing the final decision.
The result is everyone's first choice. That everyone totally agrees with the decision. Consensus is needed by those who must act together to make decisions, such as members of school-based decision making councils and committees. The process of arriving at consensus requires committee members to make every effort to accommodate varying positions and differing opinions. If they manage to do so, they develop a feeling of ownership and a commitment to successful implementation of the final solution.