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Alternative Dispute Resolution

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Alternative Dispute Resolution, commonly referred to as ADR, is a term which covers many alternatives to traditional methods for resolving conflicts or disputes. ADR has been used as a tool in resolving workplace disputes arising from poor communication, personality conflicts, or alleged discrimination.  Within Reclamation, ADR is offered as an alternative method for resolving workplace disputes instead of the traditional equal employment opportunity (EEO) informal counseling, or formal complaint process. Reclamation has chosen mediation as the primary ADR method in resolving EEO disputes because it empowers the parties themselves to reach an acceptable resolution of the conflict.

The ADR process is intended to be a supplement to, and not a replacement for, the normal Federal Sector EEO complaints process. Participation as a complainant in the ADR process is voluntary. The pre-complaint process may extend to 90 days if a complainant participates in ADR. The ADR process (as well as pre-complaint counseling) may result in an informal resolution of a complaint. If the ADR process does not result in an informal resolution of the complaint, the complainant still has the right to continue pursuing the complaint through the regular Federal Sector EEO Complaint process (PDF 214KB). Questions concerning whether, how and when you should use the ADR process should be directed to EEO Staff. 

DOI Resources

 

Collaborative Action and Dispute Resolution (CADR)
CORE
EEO PLUS (Partners Listening, Understanding, and Solving)
 

EEOC Resources

 

ADR Policy Statement
ADR for the Federal Sector
ADR Fact Sheet
ADR Question & Answer
 

OPM Resources

  ADR Resource Guide
ADR & Employee Relations
 


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Last Update: August 8, 2008 7:13 AM