Mediation Terms and Definitions

Facilitator A person competent in the use of dispute resolution who provides a neutral's services to groups (usually more than two) involved in a dispute or conflict. 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. Arbitration Process in which a neutral third party (arbitrator) hears arguments from disputants, then issues a decision. Whether court-annexed or private, this process tends to be more formal and judicial than other ADR processes, but less formal than a court procedure. Conflict A broad term regarding an interaction between people with differing interests which are perceived as incompatible. Derived from the Latin conflictus, meaning "to strike together." Conflict is often inevitable, but constructive outcomes from conflict are frequently possible. 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. 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. 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. Negotiation Process where parties directly exchange ideas, views, promises, and problems surrounding a dispute. Positional bargaining tends to focus on demands, and counter-demands of disputing parties, sometimes leading to a bargaining process where parties trade concessions and demands. Dispute Resolution (DR) A studied approach or procedural framework that analyzes the means by which disputes are handled within an organization.

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	Did You Know?
	Mediation is a process that involves a mediator Neutral third party who helps the disputing parties achieve a resolution that satisfies both of them. The mediator's primary function is to create constructive communication between parties and provide a forum where disputants can create a mutually satisfactory agreement. Mediators do not impose decisions; instead, they help people craft solutions that will work for them.