As with every other software application, demand for the product will bring about new versions with greater functionality and useability. The demand for online ADR can only grow as electronic commerce grows. The more online transactions that take place, the greater the number of disputes that will occur. I do not suggest that a high percentage of online transactions will necessarily lead to disputes, only that the number of transactions will be so great that the number of disputes will also be considerable. ADR is the only set of processes that can bring quick and efficient satisfaction to consumers and not be impeded by jurisdictional concerns.
Jurisdictional challenges are just one of many challenges cyberspace poses to governments.
The authority of government, which has traditionally been evident in a powerful and state-subsidized court and regulatory process, is less obvious online. Government has a role to play but it is not necessarily the same role government plays in offline consumer disputes. National authorities cannot claim sovereign regulatory authority over parts of cyberspace in the same way that they exercise authority over territories. Yet, national governments will remain relevant and important players in what will eventually emerge in cyberspace, since governments can influence marketplace decisions as to whether or not to institute a dispute resolution process, and can promote and suggest guidelines or best practices. The June workshop has already been very beneficial by focusing considerable attention on the need for online ADR in consumer transactions, and more activity can be expected to occur after the workshop takes place.