Thus more satisfying and creative solutions are possible. During mediation, problems and interests surrounding and underlying the issue in dispute can be addressed. Problems can be looked at in a broader perspective than is possible at adjudication where the emphasis is on the adjudication of rights and the answer to relatively narrow questions. Because open communication is encouraged in mediation, greater understanding by the parties of each other often occurs. This enhanced understanding and improved communication can lead to improved relationships in the workplace and between bargaining agent and management.
Mediation also has an educational dimension.
The dispute resolution techniques and skills of the mediator can be learned by the participants and used in dealing with other disputes. The mediator teaches dispute settlement skills in addition to using them. The experience of several grievance mediation programs indicates that the parties ability and desire to resolve disputes on their own are enhanced by their experiences in grievance mediation. Adjudication is often an unsatisfying experience. It is a formal process replete with esoteric points of law and extensive testimony of witnesses.