A Dispute Resolution at the Workplace
relationship being damaged between the two parties is decreased by choosing this form of dispute resolution, and MAP is viewed as a complying organization attempting to rectify its errors, sending a positive image to the media concerning the environmental awareness and social responsibility of the company.
Choosing a mediator as an alternative dispute resolution can be advantageous and cost effective. A mediator remains neutral in the negotiation process, pressing both parties to examine the entire matter and proposed solutions. Only the process of the negotiation is controlled by the mediator and not the outcome. There is not a great deal of information regarding mediation available to the general public. Nothing said in mediation and none of the documents prepared specifically for mediation, with the exception of those that would have been disclosed in court in any case, can be disclosed outside the mediation process. Because the decision to participate is voluntary and the solution is negotiated rather than imposed, there is a greater chance for a win-win solution and both parties remain in control. The agreement reached by the parties is not binding until it is put in writing signed by both parties. In addition, the relationship between the two parties is usually preserved because each was actively involved in the resolution.
In closing, companies are shunning lengthy trials for more cost and time effective alternative dispute resolution techniques. Mediation is one of the least expensive alternatives to litigation in which the parties arrive at a decision at a much faster rate than court trials and remain in control of the resolution process. This alternative dispute resolution technique is a reasonable way for companies to minimize exposure to the public, save time and money, and salvage relationships with customers while being responsible for their actions.
References
Kentucky Emergency Management. (Available from the Marathon Ashland Petroleum website, P.O. Box 1, Findlay, Ohio, or online from https://
Kyem.dma.state.ky.us/news/archives/po1999q4.htm)