What is "unanimous consent" in a meeting?

Unanimous consent refers to a situation in a meeting where all members present agree to a proposal or decision without the need for a formal vote. This approach is often used to expedite proceedings and reach decisions efficiently, especially when the matter appears non-controversial or when there is a general agreement among attendees. By utilizing unanimous consent, the group can save time and simplify the decision-making process, allowing the meeting to progress smoothly.

In contrast, a majority vote would involve counting the votes to determine which option has more support, while a formal vote implies a structured procedure that follows specific rules after discussion or debate. Permission for informal discussions typically relates to the chair allowing members to engage in dialogue without following formal meeting protocols, which does not represent the concept of unanimous consent. Therefore, understanding unanimous consent as a means of quick and collective agreement highlights its utility in facilitating effective and efficient meetings.