What does 'consensus' mean in group decision-making?

In the context of group decision-making, 'consensus' refers to a general agreement reached by all members of the group following thorough discussion and compromise. This process emphasizes collaboration and ensures that all perspectives are considered, ultimately fostering a collective commitment to the decision made. Consensus does not mean that every member must fully agree on every detail; rather, it recognizes that group members can reach a comfortable level of acceptance of a decision that takes into account diverse viewpoints. This approach typically results in stronger implementation of the decision, as it reflects a joint ownership and buy-in from all participants, thereby enhancing team cohesion and effectiveness.

In contrast, a decision made only by the leader, a majority vote, or one made without discussion does not embody the essence of consensus. Each of those approaches lacks the collaborative nature inherent in the consensus process, where dialogue and compromise are key to achieving mutual agreement among group members.