Workers Unions, Teachers Unions, Graduate Students Unions
The Benefits of Adopting an Online Self-Governance Platform for Unions
Online self-governance platforms are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to traditional worker's union
boards. The following are a few of the key benefits of using an online self-governance platform for worker's
unions.
Increased participation
An online self-governance platform makes it easier for all members of a worker's union to get involved and have a
say in decision-making. This increased participation can lead to better representation of the diverse needs and
perspectives within the union. These key aspects of the platform enable increased participation:
Revocable Proxies: It takes just 5-10 minutes to setup one's positions and choose proxies. From there,
even if the member doesn't have the time or interest in engaging directly on every issue, their
preferences are powering the voting outcomes of the proxies.
Asynchronous: Union involvement often suffers from lack of participation because in-person meetings can be
long
and conflict with work schedules. The online platform empowers the proposal of initiatives, discussion, and
voting
all asynchronously, so members can jump in anytime they are free.
Trust: Many people choose not to get involved in union leadership organizing because they have a distaste for
the politicking it can be associated with. And they can feel disempowered to have their voices heard. This is
all
flipped on its head with self-governance. There is no need for elections, no fixed-class of leaders, and any
member can
take back their proxy decision, change it, or vote directly any time they want. This is empowering, leads to
more trust in the process
and therefore higher participation.
Increased transparency
The online platform provides a clear and transparent record of all discussions, decisions, and actions taken by
the union, making it easier for members to stay informed and hold their leaders accountable.
More cohesion and less strife
An online self-governance platform can facilitate ongoing engagement and participation from all members, leading
to a stronger and more united union. The self-governance model is designed to have everyone not just feel
empowered
but actually be empowered. This reduces the surface area where conflicts arise.
Improved efficiency
The online platform allows for streamlined communication and decision-making processes, making it easier to reach
consensus and implement decisions in a timely manner.
Reduced costs
By reducing the need for in-person meetings and travel, an online self-governance platform can help to reduce
costs for the union and its members.
By leveraging the benefits of an online self-governance platform, worker's unions can become more effective,
efficient, and democratic organizations. Whether you are looking to replace the entire board or just some of its
functions, an online self-governance platform can help you achieve your goals and better serve the needs of your
members.
FAQs for Unions
If you're looking to integrate an online self-governance system into your existing Union with a traditional
board, here are some steps you can follow:
Research and evaluate different systems to determine the best fit for your Union. Consider factors such as
cost,
user-friendliness, security, and compatibility with your Union's existing processes.
Communicate the proposed change to your Union members and provide them with information about the benefits of
using an online self-governance system. Consider hosting a virtual meeting or town hall to answer questions
and address any concerns.
Involve the Union board and key stakeholders in the transition process. This will ensure that everyone is on
the
same page and that the implementation is as seamless as possible.
Train Union members and board members on how to use the new system, including how to access information,
participate in discussions and voting, and securely manage personal information.
Gradually phase in the new system, starting with non-critical processes and gradually increasing its use over
time. This will give everyone time to adjust and become comfortable with the new platform.
Continuously evaluate the success of the new system and make adjustments as necessary to ensure that it is
meeting the needs of the union and its members.
By following these steps and involving key stakeholders in the transition process, you can help ensure a
successful integration of an online self-governance system into your existing Union.
When piloting self-governance within a worker's union, it can be helpful to start with committees or topics
that are well-defined and have a clear impact on the union and its members. Here are a few examples of
committees or topics that may be good starting points:
Grievance committee: This committee is responsible for handling complaints and grievances from union members.
An online self-governance platform can make it easier for members to submit and track grievances and for the
committee to respond in a timely manner.
Contract negotiation committee: This committee is responsible for negotiating and ratifying new contracts with
employers. An online self-governance platform can facilitate discussions and voting on contract proposals,
making it easier for the committee to reach a consensus and for members to provide input.
Membership engagement committee:This committee is responsible for fostering engagement and participation from
union members. An online self-governance platform can provide an accessible and convenient platform for
members to get involved and stay informed about union activities.
Political action committee: This committee is responsible for advocating for worker-friendly policies and
legislation. An online self-governance platform can facilitate discussions and decision-making about political
campaigns and advocacy efforts.
These are just a few examples of committees or topics that may be good starting points for piloting
self-governance within a worker's union. By focusing on a specific committee or topic, you can test the
effectiveness of the online self-governance platform and make changes as needed before expanding to other areas.
To start integrating self-governance into your union, begin by finding like-minded neighbors and inviting them
to
join your community self-governance platform. Together, map out
areas where self-governance can have an impact and create a working
"Sprint" focused on communicating your group's goals to a wider audience and growing participant numbers. As
your community grows, work with the existing board to integrate self-governance into existing procedures for
improved community outcomes. Each community will have its own approach, but we're here to help guide you through
the process.
