In order for groups to run as smoothly as possible it can be a good idea to assign roles to members.  Sometimes this happens naturally, but if not, assigning and rotating roles, if necessary, can be a good way of ensuring the work load is distributed amongst all members of the group.

Manager/Leader

The role of the manager is to take on the responsibility of:

• getting the group organised
• keeping the group on task
• organising tasks into sub-tasks
• making sure everyone has a chance to contribute

Sceptic/Thinker

The role of the sceptic is to:

• ensure the group avoids premature agreement
• ask questions that will lead to understanding
• push the group to explore all possibilities

Checker/Recorder

The role of the recorder is to:

• check for consensus among group members
• record the group’s solutions

Conciliator

The role of the conciliator is to:

• resolve conflicts
• minimise interpersonal stress
• ensure that members feel ‘safe’ to give opinions

Explainer

The role of the explainer is to:

• reemphasise the main points
• check understanding
• ensure that each member understands the task, their component and what they have to do