Sociocracy Summary

Consent governs policy decision-making (principle 1)

Decisions are made when there are no remaining "paramount objections,” that is, when there is informed consent from all participants. Objections must be reasoned and argued and based on the ability of the objector to work productively toward the goals of the organization. All policy decisions are made by consent, although the group may consent to use another decision-making method. Within these policies, day-to-day operational decisions are normally made in the traditional way. Generally, objections are highly valued to hear every stakeholder's concern. This process is sometimes called "objection harvesting." It is emphasized that focusing on objections first leads to more efficient decision-making. 

Organizing in circles (principle 2) 

The sociocratic organization is composed of a hierarchy of semi-autonomous circles. This hierarchy, however, does not constitute a power structure as autocratic hierarchies do. Instead, it resembles a horizontal association, since the domain of each circle is strictly bounded by a group decision. Each circle has the responsibility to execute, measure, and control its own processes in achieving its goals. It governs a specific domain of responsibility within the policies of the larger organization. Circles are also responsible for their own development and for each member's development. Often called "integral education," the circle and its members are expected to determine what they need to know to remain competitive in their field and to reach the goals of their circle.

Double-linking (principle 3) 

Individuals acting as links function as full members in the decision-making of both their own circles and the next higher circle. A circle's operational leader is by definition a member of the next higher circle and represents the larger organizationin the decision-making of the circle they lead. Each circle also elects a representative (“delegate”) to represent the circles' interests in the next higher circle. These links form a feedback loop between circles.

At the highest level of the organization, there is a “Coordinating circle,” analogous to a board of directors, except that it works within the policies of the circle structure rather than ruling over it. The members of the Coordinating circle may include external experts that connect the organization to its environment. Typically, these members have expertise in law, government, finance, community, and the organization's mission. The Coordinating circle also includes the President and at least one representative of the general management circle. Each of these circle members participates fully in decision-making in the Coordinating circle.

Elections by consent (principle 4) 

This fourth principle extends principle 1. Individuals are elected to roles and responsibilities in open discussion using the same consent criteria used for other policy decisions. Members of the circle nominate themselves or other members of the circle and present reasons for their choice. After discussion, people can (and often do) change their nominations, and the discussion leader will suggest the election of the person for whom there are the strongest arguments. Circle members may object and there is further discussion. For a role that many people might fill, this discussion may continue for several rounds. When fewer people are qualified for the task, this process will quickly converge. The circle may also decide to choose someone who is not a current member of the circle. Lengths of terms are also selected.

Circles

The work of Kimberton EcoVillage Inc. (KEV) is accomplished by the three Core “circles:” Buildings and Grounds, Community Life, and Governance. These circles are interconnected through the Coordinating Circle, which organizes Member meetings and reviews the proposals and overall direction of the project. The Coordinating Circle is comprised of Circle Leaders and each Core Circle’s representative, along with the Project Manager for the Members and the President of the INC.

The Circles report at the Full (monthly) meeting their proposals and actions. In addition, several of the Circles are tasked with helping with the Green Building Council’s Sustainable Site Initiative Certification. (See Blog on SITES)

Not shown on the Organizational Chart is the work of Interns and Friends who regularly contribute their skills - whether it is joining a land work party, researching an aspect of sustainability, writing an article, or developing an application. To date, we’ve worked with students from Penn State, Temple, and West Chester Universities - they’ve all received credits for their work with Altair.

Community Life

1. The Membership Circle educates prospective members, orients, trains, and integrates new members.

2. The Hospitality Committee organizes Social Teams, and hosts events.

3. The Common House Circle works with the Architect on the design of our community Living Room, otherwise known as the Common House.

4. Care and Counsel, the newest Circle, is discussing its purposes and goals, which range from mediating conflicts to advising and helping care for elders.

5. Ad Hoc Task Groups under this Circle include: Outreach and Public Relations, Mosaic (our internal Member website), Ride Sharing, and Resolution (when we reach personal impasses).

Governance

1. The Sociocracy Circle is working on integrating the decision-making model of Sociocracy into the group process and making sure prospective Members receive the process training.

2. The Finance & Legal Circle keeps the books, prepares the budget, and also review all Contracts and Agreements involving the Members as required for the project.

3. The Development Circle represents the Members in developing the Kimberton site with the professionals (see Our Team under the “About” tab). The Project Manager for the Members is the liaison. The work of this Circle is critical to realizing one of the goals of Cohousing: this is a “member-driven” project.

Land and Buildings

The Core Circle itself, utilizing permaculture, oversees the enhancement and maintenance of the site, community garden, woods, open spaces, trails, and outdoor gathering areas, and helps determine policies related to the land.

1. The Healthy Living - Sustainability Circle is responsible for recommending non-toxic materials for the safety and health of the members. The Circle is specifying building and cleaning products to be used in the building and maintenance of the project.

2. The Electric Vehicle/Energy Circle reviews energy generation and management strategies and helps determine policies related to electric vehicle usage. Their work extends to arranging grants and programs available to realize cost savings.