All DEP programs may use the services in appropriate instances. Although the services may take many forms, there are two basic types of services that are available. The facilitator is skilled in interpersonal communication and participatory group techniques. The mediator assists contending parties to voluntarily reach their own mutually acceptable solutions to resolve a dispute. There may be a sense of loss of agency command and control.
Mediation provides fair and equal participation of all parties involved.
The initial phase of the process is time consuming in that there is an investment in assessing conditions and planning an effective process. If the involvement of an outside mediator or facilitator is necessary and appropriate, the bureau or region pays the consultant s fees. The services can be useful almost any time two or more parties are involved in, or impacted by, issues that must be resolved or actions that must be taken. When the potential for conflict or negative reaction is high, the services can be most useful. There may be procedures or standards that impact several programs that create problems.