Surveys

Surveying the group
Avoid voting (and having winners and losers) whenever possible
"Silence doesn’t always mean agreement."

Parliamentary procedure is not always appropriate! In fact, it is probably the last resort. (See the consensus page for more details.)

Surveys

        Surveys: A Measure of Group Positions
        What: A verbal or signed (e.g. with thumbs) indication of individuals' positions on a particular issue addressed by a group.
        When: Surveys are used when the groups want to see where members of a group stand on a particular issue.
        Why: The survey give the convener a quick read on where everyone in the group stands.
It is a means of seeing where each individual stands on a proposal. It is an efficient means of moving a meeting along - of avoiding situations where, for example, all agree but are still talking.

Any member of a group can call for a survey.

Method #1: Five Finger Survey

5 fingers: “I’m enthusiastic about the idea…I can be a leader”
4 fingers: “I’m all for the idea…I can provide support”
3 fingers: “I’m not sure, but I’m willing to trust the group decision”
2 fingers: “I’m not for it, but I won’t block the group decision”
1 finger: “I can’t support the decision; I need more information;

Tips for the Five Finger Survey

If everyone in the group is a five, four or three, you probably have consensus, although it's possible for the group to decide that there aren't enough "fives" to be leaders and implementers. At least a few "fives" are necessary!
Because a single person who indicates "one" has at least temporarily vetoed the solution, the facilitator needs techniques for ensuring that consensus is eventually achieved if that choice is seems to be the best. Two question that the facilitator may ask the "one" people are (1) what might we change in the proposal that would help you move up to at least a "two"? (2) can you create an alternate proposal?
If the group is deadlocked, and no solution has the combination of good support and nobody indicating "one" in the survey even after the two questions above, then it might be time for a vote (which is win/lose) or an executive decision. But nothing is lost by trying consensus.
After the survey, look carefully at who indicate a "five." They will be your leaders. Go to them when you need help implementing. Don't waster their strong support or you will insult them. They are ready!
After the survey, carefully acknowledge the people who indicate at "two" or "three." Say to the group something like "We all are aware that not everyone is a supporter of the solution, and we will continue to try to think of ways to make the solution more attractive to everyone."

Method #2: Thumb Survey This can be a quick method to assertain the will of the group, without the hassle of motions and voting. It's a good step to see if the group is finished with discussion.

thumbs up: I support the proposal, and don’t need more discussion
thumbs sideways: I need to hear more before I decide
thumbs down: For now, I am against this proposal.

Draft, 8/19