| name | conflict-resolution-diagram |
| description | Use conflict resolution diagrams to resolve opposing demands by uncovering underlying needs and a shared goal. Use when a personal, team, product, or organizational conflict appears mutually exclusive. |
| license | MIT |
| metadata | {"author":"itzcull"} |
Conflict Resolution Diagram
Overview
Category: Problem Solving
A tool designed to help resolve conflicts by finding win-win solutions while ensuring the needs of both sides are met. Developed as part of the Theory of Constraints by Eliyahu Goldratt.
How to Use
When to Use
- When facing a seemingly impossible conflict
- Professional or personal conflicts
- Internal or external disagreements
Steps
- Identify demands/proposals of opposing sides
- Define underlying needs behind each position
- Find the shared goal
Diagram Structure
- Demands/proposals (mutually exclusive)
- Underlying needs/requirements
- Shared goal/objective
Process
- Work backwards (right to left)
- Ask key questions:
- What does each side want?
- What needs are satisfied by each proposal?
- What higher-level objective unites both sides?
Example Scenario
Context: Debating website redesign with a colleague
Initial Positions:
- Colleague: Wants to redesign website
- You: Against the project
Needs Discovered:
- Colleague: Improve conversion rate
- You: Minimize resource waste
Shared Goal: Run a profitable business
Resolution: Conduct small, targeted website experiments to improve conversion without extensive resources
Additional Resources
- Template Worksheet Available
- Sources:
- "The Logical Thinking Process" by H. William Dettmer
- Forte Labs Blog article on Logical Thinking Process
Source: https://untools.co/conflict-resolution-diagram/
