Conflict Resolution

From MusicBrainz Wiki
Revision as of 08:11, 15 March 2009 by WikiSysop (talk | contribs) (3 revision(s))
Jump to navigationJump to search

The Conflict Resolution Process

The following document is the result of the official conflict resolution chat session (see logs). It is still being worked on, but will hopefully be completed within the next couple of weeks.

First Steps

Mediation, then Arbitration, then Style Guide, if necessary.

Mediation Basic Process

Everyone should be encouraged to mediate. This process needn't be formal or require people come in and say "i am mediating ...", they should just come in and summarise the opinions, even if the conflict isn't really major. Often simply restating the arguments clearly, gives a way forward.

Arbitration Basic Process

  1. Both sides agree to take the conflict to arbitration, and to abide by the arbitrator's final decision, if there is one.
  2. Both parties summarize their position.
  3. An arbitrator is chosen from a list of potential candidates. Both parties must agree to the chosen arbitrator without reservation. (If nobody on the list is suitable, they may choose someone else if they can find someone acceptable to both sides)
  4. The arbitrator must accept, and declare they are neutral in the conflict.
  5. The arbitrator engages both sides in (moderated) discussion, and tries to get both sides to agree on a decision. Ideally a resolution will evolve during this mediation stage.
  6. If no decision is reached by all parties, the arbitrator may make a final determination. They may choose one of the opposing parties' viewpoints, a middle ground, or something of their own design.
  7. The arbitrator should provide an explanation to both parties why they decided as they did, however there will be no appeals or continuing to argue the issue once a decision has been made. It will be considered the once and final resolution for this particular issue, and should be considered so by not just the conflicting parties, but by third parties and those who join after the event.
  8. Once a decision has been made, the position statements of both parties and the final decision, along with its reasoning should be posted publicly as a record.

Factors for Arbitrators

TODO: Has been decided on, but will be added later.

If the final resolution for a particular conflict should create a precedent, the arbiter should bring it up as a guideline issue. If the guideline issue is decided differently to the arbitrators final decision, then (and only then) the decision may be overturned.

Initial List of Volunteers

  • Yllona
  • ruaok
  • Joan
  • Freso
  • Lauri