Alternatives to Robert's Rules of Order for Small Groups: Effective Meeting Procedures

When managing meetings in small groups, finding the right procedural guidelines is crucial for ensuring efficiency and productivity. While Robert's Rules of Order (often abbreviated as Roberts Rules) might be the go-to standard for larger organizations and formal meetings, they may not always be the most suitable choice for smaller groups. There are several alternatives that can be more effective and adaptable to the needs of small teams. In this article, we explore some of these alternatives, including Riddick's Rules of Procedure and Demeter's Manual of Parliamentary Law and Procedure.

The Benefits of Alternatives to Roberts Rules of Order

While Roberts Rules of Order are known for their detailed and scalable framework, they can sometimes feel rigid and overly formal for small groups. This can lead to slower decision-making and a less engaging meeting atmosphere. As such, it's essential to consider other options that offer a more streamlined and informal approach.

Riddick's Rules of Procedure and Demeter's Manual of Parliamentary Law and Procedure

Riddick's Rules of Procedure and Demeter's Manual of Parliamentary Law and Procedure offer more concise and user-friendly guidelines for conducting meetings. Both books simplify the complex rules of parliamentary procedure, making them more accessible to smaller groups.

Riddick's Rules of Procedure

This book is designed for organizations and groups that prefer a more streamlined approach to meeting management. It offers clear and concise rules, making it easier for small groups to follow during meetings. Riddick's rules are slightly less formal than Roberts Rules, which makes them a more natural fit for many small groups.

Demeter's Manual of Parliamentary Law and Procedure

Demeter's Manual is another excellent resource for small groups looking for easier-to-follow procedures. It provides a balance between traditional parliamentary law and more relaxed guidelines, making it ideal for smaller organizations that want to maintain some level of structure without feeling overly constrained.

Developing Customized Rules for Small Groups

For small groups that find the structured approach of established procedural manuals to be too rigid, another viable option is to develop custom rules for their meetings. This allows them to tailor the procedures to their unique needs and preferences. For instance, they can establish guidelines such as 'one person at a time,' 'do not speak when another person has the floor,' or 'indicate when you want to speak by raising your hand.'

Implementing Custom Rules

The key to successful implementation of custom rules is ensuring that everyone in the group understands and agrees to follow them. Providing each member with a copy of the rules before or at the beginning of the meeting can help ensure everyone is on the same page. Additionally, it's wise to review and adjust the rules periodically to ensure they remain relevant and effective.

Minimum Requirements for Small Group Meetings

No matter which procedural manual you choose, or if you opt for custom rules, it's important to have a basic structure in place. At a minimum, having an agenda is essential. An agenda informs participants of the topics to be discussed and helps manage the time effectively. Furthermore, deciding on the decision-making process (who participates and how decisions are made) is crucial for a productive meeting.

Conclusion

Small groups have a range of options for managing their meetings effectively. While Robert's Rules of Order can be a useful reference, alternatives like Riddick's Rules of Procedure and Demeter's Manual of Parliamentary Law and Procedure offer more flexibility and simplicity. Additionally, developing custom rules can further tailor the meeting process to meet the specific needs of the group. By choosing the right procedural framework, small groups can ensure their meetings are well-organized, efficient, and engaging.