Hi Jim, all,
Fully agree that we should adopt an existing one (that's what we did for ipv6-wg.) I struggle with the "draw lots" clause though; I think when there are multiple remaining candidates, the WG ought to express a preference.
Well that’s what’s supposed to happen Anna. The WG reaches consensus on their preferred candidate. But suppose it doesn’t or can't. Then what?
Then we follow the three sentences beginning with the words "If the result is unclear."
IMO a “draw lots” thing is the simplest and most convenient way to resolve matters when a selection by consensus is unclear or isn’t possible: for instance, when support for two or more candidates is pretty much equal. A random selection mechanism like drawing lots provides a very pragmatic way to break those sort of deadlocks. Other ways to resolve a tie are of course possible. However they are likely to end up in a monument to process. And probably less robust/effective too.
Here's the text (already in use by ipv6-wg): "If possible the Chair should be elected by acclamation by the WG or by consensus after discussion. If the result is unclear, then a secret ballot should be held. In the case of a ballot, votes will be counted by RIPE NCC Staff and/or Chairs of other WGs. The result will be determined by simple majority." We've had ballots lots of times for the ASO AC elections. I even went through that process as a candidate myself. I disagree strongly with the characterisation of this as a monument to process.
Besides, if the names of the tied candidates all go into a hat, those who wish to shed-paint can get to debate who holds the hat, how big it is, what it’s made from, etc, etc. :-)
I do think it's crucial that the WG should try to get to the point of consensus, and everyone who wants to participate in that should be able to. What I feel most strongly about is that, when consensus hasn't been reached, and we're at the point where we have to make a decision in the room – there must be a secret ballot. Without a secret ballot, the constituency is effectively those who are willing to speak at the mic. This is ok when deciding about policy. I think it's not ok when deciding about people. All the best, Anna -- Anna Wilson Service Desk Manager HEAnet CLG, Ireland’s National Education and Research Network 1st Floor, 5 George’s Dock, IFSC, Dublin D01 X8N7, Ireland +353 (0)1 6609040 anna.wilson@heanet.ie www.heanet.ie Registered in Ireland, No. 275301. CRA No. 20036270