The Keys To Conflict Resolution: Proven Methods Of Resolving Disputes Voluntarily (Book Review)
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July 2002 |
One of the many intriguing facets of Mr. Kheel’s book is his perspective on ADR. In contrast to so many books about mediation written by mediators, Mr. Kheel is a mediator, a negotiator and an arbitrator. As such, he addresses all three types of ADR in his book. He is precise in the manner in which he differentiates the three ADR techniques and is specific about the times when one technique has a higher probability of success than another form of ADR. Bringing his extensive background to his book, allows him to give the reader true life illustrations of just how certain techniques, skills and styles can affect the outcome of the ADR process.
The book is primarily a three-part book, with one section devoted to negotiation, one to mediation and one to arbitration. In his own way, Mr. Kheel rivals the negotiating techniques and concepts presented in such works as “Getting To Yes”, but instead of using a conceptual and theoretical framework for his explanations, the author instead uses actual dispute resolution experiences, most of which were his own personal experiences. In the negotiation section, topics such as structure of negotiations, dynamics of negotiations and negotiating techniques and styles are discussed.
In the section on mediation, the process and structure of that ADR method is described. The differences between mediation and negotiation are elucidated. The role of the mediator and his precise job functions are all covered concisely and yet insightfully by Mr. Kheel. The book defines five principal roles of the mediator, these being as follows: 1) Housekeeper of the proceedings, 2) Ringmaster of the negotiations, 3) Educator of the negotiators, 4) Communicator between the disputants and 5) Innovator of creative approaches. For each role, the author describes its meaning and function.
In his third section, Arbitration is discussed. Arbitration is distinguished by the fact that the arbitrator renders a decision. This decision can be binding or non-binding, depending on the agreed upon terms of the arbitration. But of all the common ADR techniques, arbitration is one of the few, where the neutral makes a decision, usually called an “award” as a result of his analysis of the case as presented by the disputants. Once again, Mr. Kheel presents examples and illustrations of arbitration and why and how it has worked in the past.
The book finishes with three short chapters on legal issues and how they affect the practice of ADR in the real world. These legal issues are of intense interest to any negotiator, mediator or arbitrator. The Wagner Act, Taylor Law and Anti-Trust regulations are discussed. While the book is a truly valuable reference and tutorial for ADR practitioners in the Labor & Employment field, it holds valuable information and skill enhancement advice for all types of ADR professionals. Truly, Mr. Kheel lives up to his reputation as the “Master Locksmith of deadlock bargaining.”
Biography
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