Adaptive Dispute Resolution
Step-by-Step Flowchart
- Consultation: The facilitator starts by meeting one-on-one with each person who is experiencing tension, discomfort, harm, or conflict. These conversations help the facilitator understand what’s going on and explore how each person would like to address it. During this time, the facilitator also explains how the process works and can offer individual support or coaching. Sometimes, this one-on-one support is enough, and no further steps are needed.
- Confirm Participation: After consultation, if the parties choose to voluntarily address their conflict through the Adaptive Dispute Resolution process, each party will notify the facilitator of their interest in addressing the issue, conflict, or harm. Once both parties have expressed interest, the facilitator will begin the process. Participation is voluntary at every stage, and either party may choose to step back at any time.
- Preparation Meetings: The facilitator meets individually with each party to talk in depth about the situation, the impact it has had, and what each person hopes will come from addressing it. These conversations go beyond understanding the conflict itself—they provide space for reflection, validation, and clarity. Together, the facilitator and each participant begin shaping what a constructive path forward might look like and how best to prepare for the next stage of the process.
- Further Meetings if Needed: The facilitator will continue meeting with each party separately until a clear sense of common ground emerges and both parties show readiness to explore a path forward.
- Joint Meeting: If appropriate, participants meet—either together or through a shuttle format—to share perspectives, reflect on the impact of the situation, and co-create a plan to address needs and commitments. The dialogue emphasizes community care, personal accountability, and healing. Once an agreement is reached, all parties sign it and agree, along with the facilitator, to a follow-up meeting.
- Follow Up: The facilitator meets with the parties to ensure the agreement has been fulfilled. If it has not, they discuss ways to provide support and guidance to help complete the commitments.