Conflict Resolution Diagram (Evaporating Cloud)
The Conflict Resolution Diagram helps teams find win-win solutions to seemingly intractable conflicts by identifying underlying needs and shared goals. It encourages a shift from arguing positions to understanding motivations, fostering collaboration and creative problem-solving.
Use this method when facing a deadlock in decision-making, especially when stakeholders hold opposing viewpoints and traditional negotiation has stalled. It's effective for resolving both interpersonal and strategic conflicts.
Solves: Stalemate in negotiations, entrenched positions, lack of shared understanding, unproductive conflict.
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Step 1: Identify the conflicting demands or proposals from each side. Write these down clearly. (5 minutes)
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Step 2: For each demand, ask 'What need does this satisfy?' and document the underlying needs of each side. (15 minutes)
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Step 3: Identify the shared goal that both sides are trying to achieve by meeting their needs. Articulate this goal clearly. (10 minutes)
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Step 4: Discuss the assumptions behind each original proposal that create the conflict. (15 minutes)
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Step 5: Brainstorm new solutions that address the shared goal and satisfy the underlying needs of both sides. (15 minutes)
- Encourage open and honest communication about needs, not just demands.
- Focus on the shared goal to build common ground.
- Use a 5 Whys approach to uncover deeper needs.
- Incorporate a voting mechanism to prioritize potential solutions.