meetings

No debate at all—legitimate, but unwise

By Ann Macfarlane / July 6, 2020 / Comments Off on No debate at all—legitimate, but unwise
3D text displaying the word "NO" in bold, blue letters against a plain white background—there's no debate at all that its message is clear.

  A citizen rang me up in some concern about the way his city council had processed a big motion the night before. The land-use proposal was introduced and seconded, a member was recognized to debate, and that member immediately said, “I call the question.” Five of the seven members on the council voted in…

Read More

Enforcement

By Ann Macfarlane / April 25, 2019 / Comments Off on Enforcement
A man with gray hair and glasses, wearing a white shirt and red polka dot tie, is smiling at the camera against a black background. With an air of calm authority, his demeanor suggests a seasoned expert in enforcement.

Guest post by Craig Freshley. We are big fans of Craig’s wisdom and are delighted to share this post with our readers. Visit Craig’s website for more superb tips on meetings and leadership. In principle, decisions without enforcement grow weak and eventually wither. When rules or policies are not enforced it causes confusion, resentment, and…

Read More

When does chair discuss and vote?

By Ann Macfarlane / February 13, 2019 / Comments Off on When does chair discuss and vote?
A tall, dark wooden chair with a high, tufted green leather backrest and seat, flanked by wooden columns—perfect for discussing and voting on important matters.

Confusion about the role of the chair at meetings can be widespread. Here are some parameters. Download PDF Chair of large meeting does not discuss and vote When a large assembly (group) is meeting, the chair serves as a facilitator. The chair does not take part in debate (discussion) and does not vote, unless the…

Read More

Expectations are planned resentments

By Ann Macfarlane / November 16, 2018 / Comments Off on Expectations are planned resentments
A group of people sits around a round table in a conference room, engaged in discussion. A man speaks, outlining expectations while facing the others, and a projector screen is visible in the background.

Guest post by Craig Freshley. We have been big fans of Craig’s wisdom for years and are honored to share this guest post with our readers. Visit Craig’s website for more superb tips on meetings and leadership.

Read More

What are special rules of order in Robert’s Rules?

By Ann Macfarlane / October 22, 2015 /
The cover of the book "Robert's Rules of Order: Newly Revised, 12th Edition" by Henry M. Robert III and others features a gold emblem with the letters "RR" at the center, illustrating its guidance on special rules of order.

Updated July 14, 2021 Special rules of order are permanent rules, specific to your group, that guide your discussions and meetings. They allow you to make sure that your group talks about things and makes decisions in the way that works best for you. Robert’s Rules of Order encourages groups to set up their own special…

Read More

Shop our fun, informative online courses

Check them out!
View list of all blog posts