Role-based decision¶

In role-based decision, an individual makes a choice on their own initiative within the scope of their defined role – without a vote and without consulting others. The decision is documented in Rhizome to ensure transparency and traceability.

How it works in Rhizome¶

A role-based decision is made when, whilst creating a decision], you select Proxy and leave the decision to that one person. You determine who that is at that point – either yourself, by direct assignment, or via a nomination round.

The nomination round is particularly useful when it is unclear who the right person is, or when reaching an explicit, joint agreement on a decider strengthens the legitimacy of the decision.

Decide¶

The designated person makes the decision entirely independently. They document their decision in Rhizome, providing a written explanation. Once it has been recorded, the decision is deemed to have been taken and is visible to all those involved.

A role-based decision is always made in a particular role – the person making the decision has the necessary authority, responsibility and, ideally, expertise by virtue of their position within the organisation. Rhizome makes this clear and transparent.

Comprehension questions¶

The others do not vote, but they can ask settling questions. A question is marked as ‘open’ or ‘answered’, so that it remains clear what was still unclear when the decision was made.

Feedback¶

For role-based decisions, feedback is enabled by default. Once the decision has been finalised, a comments section opens below it, where other participants can respond. As the other participants are not involved in the decision-making process, this creates a transparent channel for feedback and follow-up discussions.

Advanced decision rules¶

None. A quorum would be irrelevant here: a decision is made as soon as the person responsible makes it – regardless of how many people have spoken beforehand.

Use cases¶

role-based decision documents how authority is exercised in organisations with clearly defined responsibilities – including self-organised circle structures. This approach is not intended to circumvent participation, but rather to make the exercise of delegated authority transparent and traceable.

Role-based decisions are appropriate when:

• a decision clearly falls within one person’s remit
• speed is of the essence and group consultation would offer little added value
• the organisation also wishes to document decisions made in a particular role – even without a group process

If it would be useful to seek the views of others before making a decision, consultation is the appropriate option.