The diagram ‘Select from the centre’ describes a simple and transparent procedure for selecting roles. The procedure is based on the principles of self-nomination and voluntary participation. The key elements are:
• Personal responsibility: Participants assess their own motivation and energy levels for a task before putting themselves forward for selection.
• Transparency: The decision-making process takes place physically in the centre of the room, whilst the rest of the group observes the discussion.
• Trust: The outer group trusts that the people in the centre will make a responsible decision for the community.
• Self-governance: The ‘inner circle’ of candidates agrees on a single person independently, without further instructions from outside.
‘Choosing from the centre’ is particularly suitable in the following situations #
• Speed: When a person needs to be found for a role, circle membership or other task in a straightforward and timely manner.
• Low barrier to entry: As an introductory practice for teams starting out with self-organisation.
• Boosting motivation: When the aim is to harness the intrinsic energy of those involved.
• Clear-cut tasks: For roles or tasks (such as electing a case decision-maker) where there is little need for clarification of the details.
The individual steps of the process #
1. Appoint a facilitator: A person is chosen to guide the process.
2. Clarifying the mandate: The task or role is described in detail (on a flipchart if necessary) – including the title, duration, area of responsibility and framework conditions.
3. Search for candidates: All members who are willing to take on the responsibility step actively into the centre of the room.
4. Selecting the person: The people in the centre agree amongst themselves who will take on the task. The outer group listens in silence.
5. Conclusion: The facilitator announces the result, thanks those involved and asks the group to support the new role holder.
What to bear in mind to achieve good results #
• Stick to the time limit: If no agreement has been reached after approximately 5 minutes, the process should be halted and another method adopted.
• Avoid competitive language: Terms such as ‘winner’ or ‘champion’ should be avoided so as not to create a ‘loser’ narrative.
• Right of veto: It is permissible to step into the centre to cast a veto against the procedure or the individuals involved, which will result in the process being halted immediately.
• Positive reasoning: The facilitator may encourage participants to give only supportive arguments (‘Why do I see myself/you in this role?’). • Support: When selecting a case decision-maker, it is advisable to also appoint a person to observe the process or provide coaching.
Source: See here