Step 6: Appraise Potential Solutions to the Conflict

After generating solutions to the conflict, you should work on appraising the potential solutions in a way that continues to draw both sides toward a solution and account for their interests and goals.

Two techniques for appraising solutions are to use if-then statements and use a standard of fairness. Select each technique to learn more.

A Soldier pointing something out in the distance

This will help you identify the consequences of any potential solution and evaluate the most positive solution for both parties. The most positive solution is the solution that best resolves the root causes of the conflict.

Two Soldiers measuring wood for construction

This often means using some external factor as a way to evaluate potential solutions (for instance, using the marketplace price as a standard when arguing over the price of a used bike). The other side will be more understanding of a solution if it seems to be in the spirit of fairness.