Often, and especially in mandated mediation programs, one or both of the parties feel forced into mediation. That sentiment must be addressed directly so that their participation, even in the consultation session, is shifted from feeling involuntary to voluntary. At the end of the session, if one person is anxious and the other is still considering whether to mediate, help the parties to negotiate a time frame within which to decide so a clear decision is made without either feeling pushed. The flipchart focuses the parties' attention on the common issues. An agenda keeps the mediator organized and on track and gives the clients a sense of organization.
Graphics allow for visual as well as audial information to be transmitted.
There is too much information to take in by didactic modes of communication alone.