This preserves your reputation - an important sales advantage. It also keeps disputes quiet at critical times, like before an IPO or merger. Mediation statements also are protected as confidential settlement negotiations, so they can't be used in future litigation. A lawsuit is sure to alienate a customer. Mediation may eliminate the dissatisfaction, secure payment, and lay groundwork for future business.
Mediation also resolves problems with vendors, distributors, resellers, developers, and consultants.
Due to the low cost and minimal time invested in mediation, and its high success rate, mediation should be the first choice for dispute resolution.