What procedural framework must formal meetings adhere to?

The correct approach that formal meetings adhere to is parliamentary procedure. This framework provides a structured methodology for conducting meetings and making decisions in a fair and orderly manner. It sets rules for how discussions are to be initiated, how decisions are made, and how all members can participate in a democratic process.

Parliamentary procedure promotes efficiency in meetings by clarifying the roles of participants, the order of business, and the guidelines for debate and voting. It ensures that everyone's voice is heard while also maintaining decorum and respect for different viewpoints, which is essential in formal settings where important decisions are made.

While Robert's Rules of Order is a commonly used set of guidelines that falls under the broader umbrella of parliamentary procedure, the term "parliamentary procedure" encompasses a variety of methodologies, not just those defined by Robert. Consensus building and informal discussion do not provide the necessary structure and reliability that formal meetings require to ensure that decisions are made effectively and fairly.