1. Leadership is Needed. Whether they want to be governed by a group of leaders or a solitary decision-maker, any group of people who would establish themselves in an orderly manner must have leadership. Any government needs a leader to whom the people can turn. There must be a stopping place in the decision-making process where the population can feel satisfied that someone is taking responsibility. As many organizations will say, "The buck stops here!" Who is in charge? Whether it is a monarchy, democracy, or even oligarchy, there must be a final point of authority. John Smith of the Jamestown settlement and Sam Houston of the Republic of Texas are fine examples of leaders who kept a government strong and active.
2. Safety is a Priority. Measures must be taken to be safe. Think of it--who would want to be part of an organization that could not assure a secure surrounding? People settling in an area want to feel safe from outside attacks. What if an enemy creeps in and tries to destroy the group? Protection might not be in the form of a standing army or a powerful navy, but any population that seeks to be independent needs to have a guarantee that the citizens could be free from damage or danger. A good government needs to organize a group that would ensure its protection. Such areas as Fort Pitt (which would later become the city of Pittsburgh) made safety one of their first priorities.
3. Production and Sustenance Should be Provided Daily. Food is a necessary contribution to the population. People need to be fed, and they must be given the opportunity to take care of themselves and their families. Does your government have farming in the community, or will the food be shipped from another area? Are goods and services readily accessible? People need to feel assured that provisions are available. If they do not, they will seek other places that will sustain them. A good example of this need is seen in the Sinagua Indian