3 General circle

--- tags: CF --- # 3 General circle Twice per week the FAC team meets for an hour to discuss general matters, guided by [sociocracy](#sociocracy). Each circle will focus on at least one proposal. Everyone is welcome to bring a [proposal](#proposals) as and when they are keen to get thoughts, input and support from others on a specific direction they want to take the organisation, or a decision for the organisation to make. ## Sociocracy In principle, [sociocracy](https://medium.com/@Harri_Kaloudis/a-brief-introduction-to-sociocracy-a0770f220937) gives everyone a voice during a discussion. Whilst at times this can feel like a slow process, it is the most efficient way for a group to reach meaningful agreement. ## Talking in rounds During sociocracy, the discussion moves through various stages and during each, each member of the team takes a turn to speak. The facilitator will ask (in turn) for: clarifying questions, a temperature check, any critical concerns and a second temperature check. After this, depending on each person's temperature the proposal will either be passed or someone will be assigned to revise it before bringing it back to the general circle. ### Clarifying questions This stage offers the opportunity to ask about anything you're uncertain of about the proposal. This could be the meaning of a sentence, request for context, or perhaps how this proposal aligns with other ongoing work. The person who brought the prosoal is invited to respond and answer any questions in order to offer further clarity. Use this time to make sure you understand what is being proposed. ### First temperature check Everyone raises their thumb to indicate their level of consent to passing the proposal. The first temperature check gives an indication of general feelings before specific concerns are raised. A full thumbs up means you have no concerns and would consent to passing the proposal. A thumb halfway means you have some reservations but would not block the passing of the proposal. A full thumbs down means you have concerns that would prevent you consenting to passing the proposal. ### Critical concerns This is a chance to raise any concerns you may have with passing the proposal. Again, each person takes a turn to raise their concerns. This could be the proposal's potential negative impact on the organisation or a risk or cost that hasn't been accounted for, or just someone's disagreement with the premise of the proposal. The person who brought the proposal is invited to respond in order to subdue any concerns. If the concern remains then the proposal may be updated to mitigate or resolve it. ### Temperature check Everyone raises their thumb to indicate their level of consent to passing the proposal. The second temperature check decides whether the proposal should be passed based on whether everyone can consent to it. If anyone's thumb is below halfway, the proposal must be revised before being brought back. If all thumbs are halfway or above, the proposal may be passed. ### Integration If there is enough time remaining and the proposal has been blocked, there is the possibility of integrating concerns into the proposal. Those who had concerns can work with the person who brought the proposal to update it to a state where it no longer raises the same concerns. ## Proposals You can access the template in the FAC HackMD by clicking the options for new team note and accessing 'New note from templates'. Keep proposals brief, cover what you need to. Include any questions you have. Mention any risks or metrics which must be examined. Be upfront about risks and your own concerns so that the proposal can be properly examined. A proposal will pass if everyone consents to it. If a proposal cannot be passed it should be revised by an individual (or an individual with support) before being brought back to the general circle. In any case the facilitator must clearly conclude with the next action for the passed or failed proposal. ## Roles ### Facilitator Calls on individuals when it is their turn to speak. Ensure everyone is getting their fair turn to speak. SGC gestures are encouraged. It is helpful for the facilitator to summarise long disucssions and conclude with actions as necessary. The person who brings the proposal is exempt from facilitating. ### Note taker The person who brings the proposal shall take notes of discussion points at the bottom of the document and make any corrections in real time, also noting actions.