Mediation
Mediation is a process in which a professional negotiator meets with
the parties in conflict and helps them look for mutually acceptable
solutions to the issues in dispute.
The mediator does not make the decisions, but instead works with the
parties to identify their needs and interests and to develop creative
options for resolving the conflict that are mutually acceptable.
The mediation process
- Allows the parties to create their own solutions,
which results in
a higher probability of follow-through;
- Is particularly effective when the disputing
parties want or need
to continue the relationship;
- Helps resolve the conflict more quickly that more
traditional
methods of resolving conficts and complaints;
- Is informal and confidential. Mediation takes
place around a table
in a private office. Parties can protect their privacy because there are
no public hearings or public documents; and
- Allows the parties to look at ways to prevent
conflicts in the
future.