Conflict Management

The Whiteboard Method

Promise

By implementing the strategies discussed in this work instruction, you will be able to facilitate more effective and less stressful discussions, whether in a mediation setting or any other group discussion. This will help you to become a more effective communicator and leader, capable of guiding conversations in a productive and respectful manner.

 

Principle

The principle behind this work instruction is the use of a whiteboard or flip chart to make discussions visible. This technique, as suggested by Jennifer E. Beer in her book, The Mediator's Handbook, allows for the main points of a discussion to be tracked and recalled more easily. It also provides a neutral territory where participants can work through their conflicts together. 

 

Playbook

  1. Before the start of the discussion, prepare a whiteboard or flip chart. Make sure it is visible to all participants. Think: "This board will be our shared space for tracking the discussion."
  2. At the start of the discussion, stipulate that no one may take a picture of the whiteboard or flip chart to maintain confidentiality.
  3. As the discussion progresses, record the main points on the board. Use the participants' own language, key words, and metaphors, as long as they are tactful and mutual. For example, if a participant mentions "improving communication," write that down.
  4.  Treat the board as neutral territory. Write up concerns, interests, and ideas without attributing them to a specific party or person. This encourages a collaborative problem-solving approach.
  5.  Use visuals to direct the discussion. For example, you might say, "Let's focus on this list of key concerns now, and we'll address these other points later."
  6.  Make progress and hope visible. Whenever an agreement is reached, jot it down to serve as a motivator and reminder. For example, you might write, "Agreed: Weekly team meetings to improve communication."
  7.  If a participant seems uncomfortable or aggressive, remind them that adding a concern to the list is a way to address the issue, not an accusation or demand.
  8.  If the discussion becomes heated or unproductive, take a break and refocus the group on the points already agreed upon on the board

Prompts for Self-Reflection

  • What was one key point that was effectively captured on the whiteboard during the discussion?
  • How did the use of the whiteboard influence the flow and tone of the discussion?
  • Can you recall a moment when referring back to the whiteboard helped to resolve a conflict or misunderstanding?

 

Prompts for ChatGPT

  • ChatGPT, can you provide more tips on how to effectively use a whiteboard during discussions?
  • ChatGPT, how can I handle a situation where a participant is uncomfortable with their points being written on the whiteboard?
  • ChatGPT, can you suggest some strategies for maintaining neutrality when recording points on the whiteboard?