Alternative dispute resolution
Get help with dealing workplace conflict and learn about alternative dispute resolution services for Canadian Armed Forces member and Department of National Defence public service employees.
Resolving conflict informally
If you are experiencing conflict in the workplace, where a situation is causing you distress or discomfort, before you submit a complaint or file a grievance it’s often best to address the conflict early and informally. Usually, speaking with the individual causing the discomfort is highly effective.
Sometimes, though, it might not be possible or appropriate to speak with an individual about a conflict, or after speaking with the individual, the conflict continues to exist. In such situations, speak with your manager or chain of command and ask for their help.
If speaking with you manager or chain of command is not possible or has not been successful in resolving the conflict, you can contact a Conflict and Complaint Management Services (CCMS) centre for impartial advice and support. At CCMS centres, there is trained staff who can help you decide which resolution services are appropriate for your situation. These services are easy to access and always confidential.
Find contact information for your nearest CCMS centre, or call CCMS toll free at 1-833-328-3351.
When you contact a CCMS centre, you can expect a response to your initial inquiry within two working days. The time it will take to process your case will depend on the nature and complexity of your situation.
Alternative dispute resolution
Alternative dispute resolution is a process used for resolving conflict and settling disputes informally. Alternative dispute resolution is available to all Defence Team members and provides a way to handle a problem locally and in person.
Alternative dispute resolution uses dialogue, coaching, mediation or a multi-party process to help you:
- better understand and deal with each other’s concerns
- identify interest-based options to resolve conflict and complaints
- resolve issues before having to submit a complaint
Preparing for alternative dispute resolution
To prepare:
- consider your concerns from the other person's points of view
- clarify the true source of your concerns
- think about what you may be willing to accept as a compromise and why