Getting to Consensus: A Masterclass for All Sectors

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Design Nerds Anonymous Podcast 

Season 6, Episode 6 Show Notes

In this episode, Amanda Schneider explores the growing complexity of decision-making in the built environment, focusing on how to reach consensus in larger, more diverse teams. Amanda is joined by Halle Hannaford, Senior Principal Team Lead at Chick-fil-A, who shares insights on how her team navigates decision-making challenges within the hospitality sector. Hannaford discusses how clear roles, cross-functional collaboration, and understanding the customer journey are key to effective decision-making. This episode is packed with practical takeaways for anyone managing complex decision-making processes, whether in corporate, healthcare, education, or hospitality.

After listening, you will be able to:  

• Understand how to navigate consensus building in larger decision-making committees, a challenge that has doubled in complexity over the past five years.
  
  
• Learn how Chick-fil-A uses cross-functional collaboration to streamline decisions by engaging multiple departments and ensuring alignment.
  
  
• Explore how clear roles and responsibilities within teams can prevent confusion and improve decision-making outcomes.
  
  
• Apply strategies for integrating physical and digital experiences to enhance customer journeys in both hospitality and other industries.
  
  
• Discover how data-driven decision-making can ensure that project outcomes are aligned with customer and operational needs.
  
  
  

• Links Mentioned: 

  • Learn more about ThinkLab’s Decision-Making Research 
  
  

• Connect with our guest on LinkedIn: 

  • Halle Hannaford

Design Nerds Anonymous is a proud member of the SURROUND Podcast Network. Discover more shows from SURROUND at surroundpodcasts.com. This episode of Design Nerds Anonymous was produced and edited by Hannah Viti, with music from Blue Dot Sessions. Special thanks to the podcast production team: Rachel Senatore, Rob Shulte and Hannah Viti.  

Special thanks to our podcast season sponsors,  Mannington Commercial, theMART, and NeoCon – companies doing big things to move the design industry forward.