Case Studies

While it's clear that consensus building tools will be evolving for decades or centuries to come, there are some immediate applications. I am a pragmatist. I look around at some of the many types of organizations and associations who could benefit in the short term. I am suggesting that we target some of these associations, look closely at their needs, and offer a featureset which is immediately useful and productive. Some case studies. Here is maybe the start of two aspects of this - defining characteristics, and some candidates.

** Defining Characteristics. In looking at associations and their need of consensus building, you can ask some questions:

A) Formal Structure
- Does the association have a formal structure? Is there a management or steering committee? Are there sub-committees?
- Is there a Chair or convener or governing body?
- Are they representative of a larger constituency?
- Are there elected officials?
- Do they have a formal mandate?
- Are there rules & operating policies?
- Do voting members have specific roles within the association?

B) Membership
- Is membership open or closed?
- Is there a hierarchy of membership? Different classes?
- Do voting members have a fixed term or duration?
- Are there passive/interested observers?

C) Visability (is this too vague?)
- Are there open & closed discussions and decisions? Maybe required by law or charter? Such as employee matters?
- Are there limited public views of discussions, votes, supporting documents?

D) Supporting Documents for Decision Making
- Discussions and voting will envitably be tied to external documents and outside information. How is the playing field kept level so all voting members have access to all the relevant information?

E) Security & Integrity
- Of the pystems, processes, information, etc

** Some Candidate Associations. This list hardly scratches the surface, but maybe it will prompt forum members to contribute their assessment as to the most likely early adopters and what their needs are:

Group A) Playcenter associations, School trustees, Hobby clubs, Protection societies, Family trusts, Music & performance bands & groups, Other NPOs

Group B) Regional Councils, Municiple & District Councils, Coummunity Resource & Water Boards

Group C) Political parties & organizations, Lobby groups

Group D) Professional associations, Small business Boards of Directors, Manuacturers & Business associations, Unions & Employee Associations

just some ...