Mediation Terms and Definitions

Dispute Resolution (DR) A studied approach or procedural framework that analyzes the means by which disputes are handled within an organization. Assessment An impartial analysis of a conflict situation conducted with an eye towards determining potential paths by which parties may reach a resolution of their conflict. Facilitation A collaborative process involving the use of a neutral third party (facilitator) to design and oversee a group process. Facilitation is used to help a group reach a goal or complete a task to the mutual satisfaction of participants. Policy Dialogue Informal discussion of public policy issues incorporating many different interested parties. This process usually clarifies key issues, and increases understanding between groups that are often publicly opposed to one another Dispute System Design A studied approach or procedural framework that analyzes the means by which disputes are handled within an organization. Appropriate dispute resolution processes are then instituted to handle the specific types of issues that arise in an organization. Settlement Week A court and bar sponsored mediation awareness program in which volunteer mediators assist litigants and attorneys in exploring ADR opportunities for settling civil cases. Many courts in Ohio hold settlement weeks. Ombudsman, Ombuds, Ombudsperson A third party neutral that researches complaints and suggests or implements solutions on behalf of a recognized authority. Most often on behalf of a single organization. Consensus method of seeking the resolution of a multiple-party conflict or dispute, relying upon equal participation of all parties. The end goal is to develop an agreement, usually without voting, that all of the participants can live with. Caucus A private meeting or series of meetings that take place in concert with a dispute resolution process. Can include a meeting between the neutral third party and each of the interested parties separately. Reconciliation Though not a formalized term, it describes steps taken to heal or improve relationships that have been damaged by a conflict.

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	Did You Know?
	Mediation has many qualities that make it appealing. In most cases, mediation is: conciliatory fair quick inexpensive voluntary confidential Mediation also has several key benefits. It promotes: greater participant control customized agreements workable decisions mutually satisfactory outcomes improved relationships high rates of compliance decisions that hold up over time