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From Conflict to Cooperation

The From Conflict to Co-operation series aims to help cooperatives avoid unnecessary conflict and deal with conflict when it arises. These five booklets cover basic communication concepts, making meetings more effective, dealing with conflict, improving communication, and the vital role of the board.

Booklet 1: Conflict – where it comes from and how to deal with it

Outlines the different ways conflict can arise in a co-operative, the different responses and how it can be dealt with.

Booklet 2: Communication skills

Outlines some basic communication concepts and looks at steps to improve communication, including avoiding misunderstandings arising from cultural or gender differences. Discusses the importance of assertive behaviour for good communication and highlights how the enterprise will benefit from maximum participation by members.

Booklet 3: Meetings and decision-making

Describes ways in which we can make meetings more effective. Effective meetings are reasonably short and enjoyable, good decisions are taken and everyone comes away with a clear idea of who is doing what. We also look at a range of different decision-making methods and the implications of their use.

Booklet 4: Organisational growth and development

Explores the tensions that can arise as a cooperative develops and identifies tools, techniques and approaches which will help as the cooperative experiences growth and change. Looks at managing change, policies and procedures to address issues such as recruitment, induction and appraisals or personal reviews. We also discuss a participative approach to strategic planning and summarise four strategic planning tools.

Booklet 5: Role and responsibilities of the board

Addresses the vital role of the board. We look at the different roles that board members can adopt, the relationship of the board with day-to-day management and what to do if you are a board member and an employee – which hat do you wear when?

The booklets are aimed primarily at flat democratically-managed cooperatives, small or large. However, they will be useful for any group working democratically.

From Conflict to Co‑operation was written by Kate Whittle, Cooperantics, illustrated by Angela Martin and published by Co‑operatives UK.

View here.

Financing and Development United Kingdom Educational
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