Methods

Sociocratic Circle-Organization Method (Sociocracy)

The Sociocratic Circle-Organization Method, also known as Sociocracy or Dynamic Governance, was developed by Gerard Endenburg, a Dutch engineer. This governance model produces effective organizational structure, efficiently organizes tasks, and requires inclusive decision-making. This structure and its processes organically produce accountability and interconnection between different levels of the organization.

The Way of Community draws from Sociocracy in the following areas:

  • Adaptive Structures: the circular hierarchy of Sociocracy contributes to the core values of connection and effectiveness through making collaborative decisions.
  • Aim Realization: Sociocratic decision-making processes, using the rule of consent or “no objection,” along with workflow mapping, contribute to the core values of equivalence and effectiveness.
  • Relational Development: the Sociocratic principle of double-linking provides accountability and two-way flow of power and information, contributing to the core values of equivalence and connection.

To learn more about the Sociocratic Method, click here.

Compassionate Communication

Compassionate Communication, also known as Nonviolent Communication or NVC, was developed by Dr. Marshall Rosenberg, PhD. It is a highly evolved set of teachings and practices based on the understanding that all humans share a set of universal longings, called needs. When we approach our interactions with others with the conviction that everyone’s needs matter, we are much more likely to experience satisfaction and joy in our lives.

The Way of Community draws upon Compassionate Communication as the basis for all interactions among members of the organization. While developing communication skills is part of the Relational Development component of the Way of Community, the practice of these skills contributes to connection, equivalence and effectiveness in the Aim Realization and Adaptive Structures components as well.

To learn more about Compassionate Communication, click here.

Restorative Circles

Restorative Circles refers to a set of practices, developed by Dominic Barter, which combine elements of Restorative Justice and Compassionate Communication.

From the Restorative Circles website:

A Restorative Circle is a community process for supporting those in conflict. It brings together the three parties to a conflict – those who have acted, those directly impacted and the wider community – within an intentional systemic context, to dialogue as equals. Participants invite each other and attend voluntarily. The dialogue process used is shared openly with all participants, and guided by a community member. The process ends when actions have been found that bring mutual benefit.

The Way of Community draws upon Restorative Circles as the inclusive community practice for conflict transformation. While developing conflict transformation skills is part of the Relational Development component of the Way of Community, the practice of these skills contributes to connection, equivalence and effectiveness in the Aim Realization and Adaptive Structures components as well.

To learn more about Restorative Circles, click here.