Principles

Collaborative problem-solving is an approach to making decisions that should be modified to fit the situation. These basic principles inform a collaborative problem-solving approach. All decisions, those reached by consensus and not, can be made using a collaborative problem-solving approach.

Who	Inclusive Inclusive of all affected interests Internal stakeholders - all SLC departments/government entities that: Play a role in decision-making Are necessary to implement a decision Have relevant information to inform a decision External stakeholders Directly affected by outcome of a decision Necessary to implement a decision Able to block the implementation of a decision
What	Problem-Solving Identify what the problem is that needs to be solved Invent options that address all perspectives on the problem Set timetable for implementing solution
When	Proactive Involve internal and external stakeholders at the beginning of the discussion – before “preferred” options have been identified Build respect, trust, and buy-in Responsive Provide feedback to stakeholders about how their input was used, or if not used, why not
How	Interest-Based Before moving to potential solutions: Identify internal (SLC) policy and institutional interests Identify external stakeholders’ interests (underlying needs) Collaborative Collaborative, not adversarial Work together to define the problem to be solved Brainstorm all potential options, before reaching judgment or selecting a “preferred” option Use objective criteria to choose between potential options
Why	Promotes legitimacy and transparency Facilitates thoughtful, fact-based decisions Encourages creative problem-solving Develops long-term working relationships Supports timely implementation