Mediation and Conflict Resolution

Finding interest based solutions

“In any situation, the individual most able to describe reality without blame will emerge as the leader, whether designated or not.” Edwin Friedman

Conflict emerges when disagreements, differences, annoyances, competition, or inequities threaten something important. Every conflict involves people, process and the problem itself. Mediation is the process in which an independent, impartial person supports other parties to resolve disputes and create agreements.

Conflicts that sometimes arise in work situations may appear irresolvable by the parties involved, or by other internal organizational support systems. Such conflict can lead to a significant loss of productivity and an undercurrent of organizational politics that is disruptive and detrimental to the positive climate and productivity of other employees.

Sometimes the conflict is between two organizations where both parties want to avoid formal proceedings and doubt their own ability to work out the problem.

To mitigate the negative impacts of unresolved conflicts, organizations frequently turn to an independent mediator skilled in conflict resolution. Our process to facilitate conflict resolution encourages interest-based negotiation as a means of not only “managing” the conflict, but creating a shift in the situation and the way people think.