Putting on the Blinders of Partisan Bias

Lately, I have noticed a striking phenomenon. My republican friends regularly complain about the nation's budget deficit. My democratic friends suddenly are not complaining about the wars in Iraq or Afghanistan. Why do I find this striking? Well, just a short time ago when George W. Bush was … [Read more...]

The Rashomon Effect

Here's a typical pattern in collaborative decision-making. A team meets, works through a series of issues and reaches agreement on a course of action. They leave the meeting confident that there is consensus and alignment. They begin to act on the details of their agreement. In the days and weeks … [Read more...]

Breaking Through Impasse

At some point in most meetings, there is impasse. Two participants take opposite sides on an issue. You know the drill: as they defend their positions, they dig their heels more firmly in. The group's frustration builds; energy levels diminish. Don't get me wrong. Conflict can be necessary to … [Read more...]