Implementing a conflict management system
The implementation of a conflict management system is essential in making an organization resistant to conflicts and nipping disputes in the bud. This involves systematically reviewing with stakeholders the potential for conflict within the organization and procedures already in place for dealing with it. This review may result in various proposed courses of action which should then be adapted sensitively to the circumstances of the organization, e.g.
- the development of a conflict early warning system
- internal arrangements for conflict management such as a complaints committee or an "ombudsman"
- training of in-house mediators
- courses for employees and managers
- deliberate changes made to the culture of communication and conflict, i.e. by changing the "hidden rules" that determine behavior in the organization
