Analyze the conflict

Ask question to analyze the nature and type of conflict

Determine management strategy

Once you have a general understanding of the conflict, both parties involved will need to analyze and select the most appropriate strategy. Some examples are as below:

Compromise( This strategy is generally used to achieve temporary solutions, to avoid destructive power struggles or when time pressures exist. The outcome is "win some/lose some.)

Avoidance( This results from a low concern for your group's own interests coupled with a low concern for the interests of others. The outcome is "lose/lose." This strategy is generally used when the issue is trivial or other issues are more pressing. ,

Accommodation( This results from a low concern for your group's own interests combined with a high concern for the interests of other party. The outcome is "lose/win." This strategy is generally used when the issue is more important to others than to you. It is a "goodwill gesture."

Pre-negotiation

The following should occur prior to negotiation.

Initiation: One party raises the possibility of negotiation and begins the process. If no one is willing to approach the others to encourage them to reach an agreement, a trusted outsider could be brought in as a facilitator.
Assessment: Parties involved in the conflict must be identified and invited to sit down together. They also need to determine which issues are negotiable and which are not.

Negotiation

When negotiating be sure to openly discuss your reasons, needs, concerns and motivations underlying positions.

To resolve conflicts, concentrate on inventing options for satisfying interests. Do not judge ideas or favor any of the options suggested. Only after the parties have finished listing the options, should the options be determined if satisfactory by both interested parties. If possible, put in writing areas of agreement and disagreement to ensure common understanding. This helps ensure that agreements can be remembered and communicated clearly and effectively. Finally, both party must be confident that the others will carry out their parts of the agreement. Discuss and agree upon methods to ensure both parties understand and honor their commitments.

Post-negotiation

Once negotiation is complete, the group will need to implement the decisions made. Communication and collaboration should continue as the agreement is carried out. You will still need a plan to monitor progress, document success, resolve problems, renegotiate terms and celebrate success.