Stagnation

[Aerick]

One of the pitfalls which we must avoid is the danger of stagnation. On this end, I would like to see a government system that at least allows for change.

Change has a few major advantages over rigidity. Obviously, things can move to the better. More importantly, when a change occurs, it freshens everything up, and is accompanied by a burst of energy. This energy can go a long way to improving any clan, and I think it wise to harness it.

On the other hand, if things are always changing, there is never any stability, and no one is certain where matters stand at any given time. So a balance must be struck, and I say it is of enough importance that balancing change and stability should be a goal of the clan.

[Konoko]

Here's an idea that goes a little further than the clan reorg.

Why not have elections for the clan positions?
Have these elections every x number of months. If there is a leader (or guide or whatever they will be called in the new clan) that doesn't see eye-to-eye with what the majority of the actual clan members want, then in the next election this clan leader could be voted out.

Founders and leaders should be kept separate. A founder is one in the clan who deserves respect for having the vision and strength to form the clan. A leader/guide is one who will guide the clan members in making decisions. Determine what the clan members would like and balance that with what the what ism possible, etc.

The world is dynamic and things change - clans should adapt and change with it as the members learn, grow, and change. A clan that only has the goal of taking care of newbies will not last with its orginal members. Those that are initially newbies will become strong and powerful and will seek larger challenges. Challenges that the rats and scavenger birds in town will not meet. Newbies are important and clans should always have a part of it that will help newbies and help them become more powerful. But a clan also needs to have goals and challenges for its stronger members that have been with the clan longer.


Just a few ideas and suggestions...

Konoko

[Aerick]

The problem inherent with elections is campaigning. If members are competing for positions, it weakens the ties they have to each other, and it distracts them from actually doing thier job.

That said, the pressure to excel may outweigh the drawbacks of competition. I personally think that regular elections will not happen at the right times (see Murphy's Law) and I prefer the 'vote of no confidence' type system.

Other than that, I wholeheartedly agree with Konoko's insights.

[Konoko]

Oh yeah, I never even thought of the whole campaigning thing...

That would suck and be boring :)


The "vote of no confidence" thing sounds better...

[Nunul]

I wholeheartedly agree with Konokos first post.

[Lilly]

I personally would steer clear of elections. They can very easily become, or at least seem like, popularity contests -especially if 2 members who are both very competent and capable go for the same position.

[Ender]

for clear proof that elections work/worked check the SDC scrolls. they have the best almost democratic system in CL

[Althus]

Hrm, it's obvious that the vote is leaning to "no-elections" I demand a recount!

...

Damn! No elections won again! I'm sueing!!!

(Sorry, obvious political joke ;)

[GrayGradi]

Contested elections are a source of danger, especially in a small group.

However, should we not have specific terms of office? This would encourage rotation of the officer positions, or, if the individual stays on, a re-affirmation of support.

The original clan re-organization document called for the officer decisions to made by the approval committee; an alternative method is for the approval committee to nominate one person upon a vacancy or end of term, then having the mebership vote that nomination up or down.

[Nugget]

I think elections are bad I think founders should delegate to who they think is best for the possion depending on exp and other stuff.
And ask the exile if they would agree to helping.


Just a thought!

[Lilly]

That is roughly how the Silver Drakes was run, and it did not work for the majority of the people here. Having the set leadership like that does have its advantages, but I think the fact that we don't set anyone above each other is vastly to our credit.

Arteress Lai

[Althus]

I agree. Elections are good. We're a democracy, not an oligarchy (I love my word-a-day calendar)!

-Awfus in 542!!

[Nuvali]

I very much agree with Althus and Lilly. I praise the founders of this clan for their capacity to rise from the Drakes with a very distinct idea of what equality should mean for this organization. It is, undoubtedly (at least in my mind), the cornerstone of this clan, and one that garners much respect from many exiles.

Expect responsible decisions from a small few, and you might get a few good results. Expect responsible decisions from everyone, and you can expect something entirely more special. (Hmm... I'm not sure that made much sense, but then again, I'm drinking very *irresponsibly* right now... :-)

[Nugget]

Hey nuvali you need help :P

j/k

Nugget

[Nuvali]

Yes I do. That is why I carry my bottle of liquid therapy wherever I may travel.