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Collaborative Problem Solving

The collaborative problem-solving process separates the problem from the people involved and encourages open dialogue between conflicting groups. It involves listening to understand each viewpoint, clarifying the underlying problem, brainstorming potential solutions, and developing an agreed upon solution where both sides' needs are met. The process is offered through the Conflict Resolution Program at the University of Delaware to help public and nonprofit organizations address conflicts.

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Ysmenia González
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30 views1 page

Collaborative Problem Solving

The collaborative problem-solving process separates the problem from the people involved and encourages open dialogue between conflicting groups. It involves listening to understand each viewpoint, clarifying the underlying problem, brainstorming potential solutions, and developing an agreed upon solution where both sides' needs are met. The process is offered through the Conflict Resolution Program at the University of Delaware to help public and nonprofit organizations address conflicts.

Uploaded by

Ysmenia González
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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From the Conflict Resolution Program at the Institute for Public Administration

The Collaborative Problem-Solving Process


Collaborative problem-solving is a great tool to address potential or existing conflict. It separates
the person from the problem and encourages open dialogue between conflicting groups. Through
the collaborative problem-solving process, conflicting groups can create a solution in which both
sides “win” and relationships are protected.

Air All Viewpoints


1. Listen actively and intentionally as the other person speaks.
Then summarize the main ideas shared and acknowledge any
emotions expressed in your own words.
2. Share how the current conflict affects you through an I-
message: “I feel frustrated when you don’t respond to my
email because what I have to say is important.”

Clarify the Problem


3. Ask questions to identify and clarify each side’s underlying
interests and needs.
4. Combine both side’s needs into a joint issue in neutral terms,
such as “Break-down in Communication.”

Brainstorm Solutions
5. Generate a list of all possible solutions to the problem.
6. Eliminate weak solutions.
7. Test out remaining solutions. Ask: Is it realistic? Does it
satisfy our underlying needs?

Develop an Agreement
8. Reach agreement on the best solution(s) from list.
9. Specify the details of the solution and clarify each person’s
responsibilities.

About the Conflict Resolution Program


The Conflict Resolution Program (CRP), part of the Institute for Public
Administration (IPA) at the University of Delaware (UD), is a resource
dedicated to supporting transformational and organizational change in
nonprofit, public, government, and educational settings.
For more resources, visit https://www.bidenschool.udel.edu/ipa/serving-delaware/crp

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