Mediation and arbitration

Mediation and arbitration can be viewed as fair and just if the attendees understand the purpose of a mediation meeting and the benefits of having an arbitrator reviewing a case or conflict. When two parties disagree on an outcome, have opposing sides of a situation or do not agree on the direction of an issue that impacts either party, a mediation meeting hosted by a mediator or arbitrator can assist in resolving issues. I have attended many meetings where an arbitrator reviewed evidence presented and provided a resolution based on their findings.
According to Merriam-Webster a mediator is defined as “”one that mediates between parties at variance”” while a arbitrator is defined as “” (Merriam-Webster, 2020) to act as arbiter upon (a disputed question) : to settle (a dispute between two people or groups) after hearing the arguments and opinions of both”” (Merriam-Webster, 2020) Arbitrators can settle a case while a mediator listens to opposing parties, makes recommendation and if no resolution is reached, parties are referred to a higher court.
As it relates to union versus non-union examples, union employees typically have the assistance of a union organizer and/or delegate. In a non-union environment, some companies rely on a employment dispute resolution process to resolve conflict and ensure there is fairness and consistency.  The current company I work for has this process in place for those employees that are in non-union roles. There is a 4 step process in the employment dispute resolution process:
Manager discussion occurs and issues are outlined and documented
If disagreement occurs, employee appeals to Department Director
If no resolve, a peer review panel appeal takes place
If no resolution reached, the organization’s CEO reviews and makes final determination References: