Educate the stakeholders. What looks like an easy decision at first glance may turn out to be very complicated, with numerous important details. The information needs associated with evaluating various options may be quite large and it may be necessary to form working groups to do research, or to seek out neutral experts who can give objective advice. Needless to say, it takes time to collect and prepare information, to organize and hold meetings, and to bring all parties involved to a similar level of understanding. Keep discussions focused on interests.
Interests are the concerns, desires, and fears that underlie a stated position.
Negotiating how to best accommodate people s concerns is less costly and more satisfactory than negotiating who is most right or which stakeholder has the most power. Although reconciling interests is not simple, a well conducted decision-making process allows stakeholders to generate creative solutions that are acceptable to all stakeholders, even though they may not be their first choice. Select and implement an appropriate decision-making process. If relationships are fragile or animosity escalates, strongly consider contacting a neutral third party to help manage discussions. Misreading the situation can cause well intended efforts to make the situation worse, rather than helping to resolve disagreements.