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Have you been in meetings that last forever and nothing gets done?

A man in a suit and tie saying, 'Free me from this hell!'

There's a better way!

Use parliamentary procedure to have more efficient and fair meetings.

What Is Parliamentary Procedure?

There are certain rules one must abide by

It's a set of rules for conducting business at meetings and public gatherings.

These rules outline how members can present, discuss, and vote on proposals at a meeting.

Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised (commonly abbreviated RONR) is the most widely used manual of parliamentary procedure in the United States.

Did you know?

Henry M. Robert first published his parliamentary manual, Robert's Rules of Order, in 1876. His descendants continue to update it. The last version when this Byte was written is Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, 12th edition (robertsrules.com).

Why Is It Important?

Hey, a rule is a rule and let's face it, without rules there is chaos.

Parliamentary procedure allows everyone's voice to be heard when making decisions.

Let these 3 principles guide you:

  1. One thing/person at time — this avoids confusion and chaos, and saves time.

  2. Minority has a say — both sides should be discussed before making a decision.

  3. Majority rules — at least more than half of the group must agree to take action.

Meeting Requirements

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Quorum — minimum number of members needed to conduct business

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Agenda — list and order of topics to discuss at the meeting

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The Chair — presiding officer who runs the meeting and enforces the rules

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Minutes — written record of what happens at the meeting

Did you know?

To avoid chaos, only one person speaks at a time at the direction of the chair.

How Members Get A Say

Speaker standing on a box

As a member of a group, you can bring up business and make decisions by:

  • Making a motion — proposing that the group take action

  • Seconding a motion — expressing support for discussing the motion

  • Debating motions — sharing your opinion on the motion, either in favor or against

  • Voting on motions — helping the group make a decision supported by the majority

Quiz

Sarah moves that the office staff wear jeans on Fridays. Her colleague Emily seconds the motion, then discussion begins. Which of the following could stop them from voting on the motion?

Take Action

Person at group meeting says: 'Okay, I feel like these are great ideas!'

Have more productive meetings with parliamentary procedure!

License:

This Byte has been authored by

KA

Kitzzy Avilés

Instructional Designer, Leader and Facilitator

Master's Degree

English

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