Assessment tools can provide insight into the individuals that comprise the group. These tools include assessments of individual behavior traits and preferences. Confidential interviews can also be used as a form of assessment to assist in formulating interest, issues, and expectations of the parties involved. This information can be enormously useful in designing the group process or the intervention to be selected. Visit the Specialized Training and Assessment Instruments page to learn more.
Conflict/Climate Assessments "take the temperature" of a group of any size whether or not there is a conflict issue at hand. Depending on the situation, a Conflict/Climate Assessment may:
- Gather information about the current status of a team, office, or organization
- Identify relevant issues or concerns about a conflict situation
- Identify factors that are having an impact on the group
- Clarify signs or symptoms of a problem
- Gather ideas or input from stakeholders
- Proactively check how teams or offices are doing
"Using Climate Assessments to Address Conflict" information sheet.
Coaches work with individuals on a one on one basis, over sustained period of time. The coaching relationship assists in developing objectives and opportunities for observation and feedback. Coaches help improve effectiveness, assisting with decision-making approaches, communication styles, and conflict management. To learn more about Conflict Coaching view the "Using Conflict Coaching to Address Conflict" information sheet or visit the Contact Us page.
Training is a very valuable tool but works best when it can be most effective. If underlying problems and issues have not yet been address, the effectiveness of the training may be hindered by these unresolved concerns. Training on effective communication techniques, team building, and conflict management skills are examples of topics to consider when the time is "right" or when preparing people for working together in a collaborative forum. To learn more visit Training and Workshops.
Mediation is a fairly structured process, which utilizes the assistance of a neutral third party to manage the process. The parties at the mediation table are empowered to create their own solution with the parameters of existing federal laws and guidelines. To learn more, visit the Contact Us page or contact a CORE PLUS Specialist to assist you.
Facilitation can range from managing a brainstorming session to handling complex group dynamics where heightened tension exists. The skills of a facilitator should be tailored to the type of use that has been identified. During complex facilitations, a skilled neutral facilitator or team may be most effective and may need to use additional tools such as mediation with the group members to move toward consensus-based outcomes. To learn more about facilitation visit Facilitation for Effective Outcomes, Collaboration Resources, or Organizational Development/OED. "Using the Group Facilitation Process to Address Conflict" information sheet.
Resource and Referral Network:
The USGS Collaborative Action and Dispute Resolution (CADR) Office is actively involved with the federal network of collaboration and conflict management/resolution professionals. This network affords access to shared resources and the latest information on current trends, technology, and services within the collaboration and conflict management field. For more information on USGS-CADR Resource and Referral Network use the Contact Us section in the left column.
Conflict Management for Teams:
Conflict Management for Teams is a team-building module which aids teams in improving communication, gaining insight about personal preference as it relates to styles of work, and conflict management. It is an excellent resource for bringing colleagues together, in an effort to enhance team relationships and improve performance. Based on the team's need, the conflict management module is tailored to accommodate the overall objectives identified. For more information on Conflict Management for Teams visit our Contact Us page.
Conflict Management for Teams:
- Improve overall team performance and morale
- Address conflict early on
- Gain insight on how your team operates
