Introduction

Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) refers to the use of virtual communication technologies for dispute resolution. It is the online equivalent to ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) and implies the creative and innovative use of online technologies to design customized dispute resolution processes, including mediation, for the use of individual clients and organizations. 

ODR has a vast field of applications, ranging from labor and employment to intellectual property and family disputes, to name but a few. With more and more business moving online, the future of commercial mediation is clearly located in the ODR fold.

What is mediation

But what exactly is mediation and how does a typical mediation process look like? 

Mediation is a confidential process of communication and negotiation that is managed by a neutral and impartial professional with no decision-making abilities, the mediator. The aim is to prevent, manage, resolve or end a dispute, thus avoiding the increase of tensions, costs and risks, generated even by taking it in the courts of law. Mediation gives all participants the opportunity to craft the rules that govern the dialogue process, to have a voice, to present their perspectives and to propose options that take into account what is most important to them.

In order to achieve these objectives, the mediator can meet jointly but also separately with the participants in the mediation. Also, in order to ensure all the conditions for an informed decision, the parties are encouraged to be advised in the mediation room by lawyers or other advisors. They have an essential role and become veritable agents of reality in mediation.

Specialized mediators

All our mediators are seasoned professionals with solid knowledge, skills and certified experience in the dispute resolution field. Yet, some of the ADR Center Romania mediators are specialized.

To see a list our mediators specialized in mediating disputes using technology, click here.