Guidelines for an Effective Basis of Unity

This document is intended as a support for a critical conversation about the effective qualities and uses of a Basis of Unity.  These points could be used as a handout or reproduced on flip charts of slides.

Qualities of an Effective Basis of Unity
•    Practical / strategic
•    Express key aspects of group / work
•    Short, clean, accessible language
•    Compliment vision / mission
•    Dynamic – updated every 1-2 years
•    Understood and supported by all engaged members

Qualities of a Less-Effective Basis of Unity•    Conceptual / moralistic
•    Express compromise of personal identities / politics
•    Long, wordy, academic
•    Stand alone
•    Static or Too dynamic

Effective Uses of a Basis of Unity•    Guide development and evolution
•    Guide complex / controversial decisions
•    Build alliances , coalitions, partnerships, etc….
•    Assist in the resolution of some conflicts

Less Effective Uses of a Basis of Unity•    Main content for outreach, merchandise, etc…
•    Used commonly for fundraising
•    Used as a strategic plan
•    Used to open every meeting
•    Used to resolve all conflicts (for example a conflict about whether the window in the office should be open or closed should not be resolved by using the basis of unity!)

http://coco-net.org/en/node/3928