Reference #264: The First 90 Days
Most leaders use the following decision-making processes: "consult and decide" and "build consensus".
In the "consult and decide" approach, the leader solicits input from her team but reserves the right to make the final call. The "information gathering and analysis", and the "evaluating and reaching closure" processes are separated; the group is involved in one, but not the other.
In the "build consensus" process, the leader seeks both input (information and analysis) and buy-in from the group for any decision. The goal is not full but sufficient consensus; a critical mass of the group must believe in the decision and the rest agree they can live with and support implementation of that decision.
Watkins. The First 90 Days, 2013. (192)