Re: SUO: On the subject of taking votes
In face-to-face meetings on can easily get a feeling
for how much of a consensus a particular choice may have.
In this discussion group, where only a few comment
on any given issue, it is much more of a guessing game.
If "vote" is a no-no than can anyone suggest how I can
get a "sense of the committee" on a specific issue,
such as whether we would want a "spatialLocation"
to be a "required" or "optional" relation?
Pat
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Robert Spillers wrote:
>
> On the subject of taking votes - having had some experience
> participating in goal oriented public/professional organizations, I
> find it unwise to take votes when the outcome is not reasonably
> predictable. It causes people to argue their positions differently and
> to harden whatever divisiveness already existed. Unless the question is
> trivial (when to return from lunch in face to face meetings, etc.) or
> absolutely necessary, one should not call for a vote unless there is
> reasonable expectation of a large majority. A close vote is usually much
> worse than not taking a vote.
>
> Standards organizations require consensus, usually in the range of a
> 75% majority. In practice any significant opposition frequently
> prevents a proposed standard from being accepted. There are of course
> exceptions, but a "standard" normally is intended to mean something that
> is (or will be) very widely accepted - not just the best technical
> effort of the group, however diligent they may be.
>
> In this Working Group we have had several votes that I regard as
> unnecessary and divisive. Several years ago I proposed that instead of
> having votes on candidates for starter documents, that we accept any
> documents offered, without a vote and without any having a privileged
> position. Those documents that people felt were worthwhile would
> attract volunteers and progress. Less attractive documents would be
> ignored. When a large majority seems to develop, a vote should be held
> to confirm a consensus.
>
> If most members felt confidence in the chair's fairness and
> impartiality, many actions could be taken by unanimous consent.
> Unfortunately that is not the case - and yes, I am skeptical about this
> group's ability to produce a standard.
>
> Bob
>
>
>
--
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Patrick Cassidy
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