Dispute resolution

Negotiating Tech: An Inventory of U.S. Union Contract Provisions for the Digital Age

Participation in technology governance


5.4.b Dispute resolution

To strengthen joint problem-solving, some agreements promote the use of consensus-based decision-making or call for the use of facilitators, mediation, or conflict resolution training when disputes arise within collaborative structures.

Examples:

  • “Decisions will be made by using the consensus approach that integrates the interests of the parties (if consensus is not reached by the National Training and Education Committee (NTEC), the chairs will attempt to resolve the dispute).” (AFGE-OPM125)
  • The Council will, as necessary, draw on the expertise of individuals to enhance labor-management relations. This includes utilizing facilitators and providing training for personnel and union representatives in dispute resolution techniques and cooperative labor-management practices. (AFGE-OPM3)