Defining the Issues
Copyright © 2003
Annette Nay, MS
- Get specific.
- Break down the problem into its basic parts.
- Use language that is understood by all.
- Separate the problem from participant's personal interests and positions
to get the whole picture. You can find what the answers are by answering the
questions Why, What, and How.
- Interests are principles, values, or beliefs which needs to be
satisfied in order for a dispute to be resolved desirably. This is the
"Why."
- Issues are thoughts that a person believes must be addressed,
protected, acquired, or distributed in order to resolve a conflict. This
is the "What."
- Positions are ideas or ways to settle the conflict. This is the
"How."
- Separate people or personalities from the basic problem.
- Define a win-win situation for both parties.
- Identify the problem and define it clearly.
- Word the problem in such a way that both sides except it.
- Post this in a prominent place.
- A major problem may have various parts. Label these under the major
problem as parts a, b, c, and so on.
Reference
Options Unlimited (1990) Mediation.
Other Mediation Articles
Dispute Resolution Continuum
Five Problem Solving Methods
Stages of Mediation
The Job of the Mediator
Rules of Mediation
Active Listening
Communicating with "I"
Messages
Reframing Issues Positively
Tips for Mediators Asking
Questions
Venting
Brainstorming Inventive Options
for a Win-Win Outcome
How to Make Good Decisions
Hints for De-Escalating
Conflict
Techniques for Breaking an Impasse
What to Do if They Won't Negotiate
Guidelines for Writing an
Effective Agreement
Annette Nay, MS
Annette Nay Homepage
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