W24_Austin_Conflict Resolution in Project Management

1.    Problem recognition, definition and evaluation

Conflict in a program or project management is inevitable. Often, committed group members attempt to resolve group conflicts by actively communicating information about their conflicting motives or ideologies to the rest of the group. Hence, problem statement is to determine best method of addressing a conflict situation among group members within a project organization.

2.    Development of the feasible alternatives

Ultimately, a wide range of methods and procedures for addressing conflict exist;

1.    Collaborating - also known as problem solving, integrating, or win-win solution.

2.    Compromising - also described as a "give and take" or satisfaction style.

3.    Accommodating - also referred to as smoothing or obliging style.

4.    Forcing - also known as competing, controlling, dominating, or win-lose solution. 

5.    Avoiding - also described as withdrawal style.

3.    Development of the outcomes and cash flows for each alternative

4.    Selection of the acceptable criteria

Conflict in project management is not necessarily unfavorable when properly managed. Several advantages have been identified such as increasing personal growth and morale, enhancing communication, and producing better project outcomes, dependent on acceptable criteria of need to win, building trust, building commitment, common interest, foster accountability, resolving conflicts and focusing on results.

5.  Analysis and Comparison of the alternatives

The challenge for organizational leaders and project managers is to try to maintain the right balance and intensity of conflict in project management, through negotiation, mediation, diplomacy and peace building approaches.  However, conflict can be the decline of an organization if it is not effectively managed.

6.    Selection of the preferred alternative

With reference to above survey results, analysis and comparison of the alternative conflict resolution methods, it is therefore established that best method of conflict resolution among group members in a project organization is the collaborative, problem solving, win-win solution. Practically results in long term solutions to conflict.    

7.    Performance Monitoring and Post Evaluation of Results

By utilizing project management principles, understanding the dynamics of conflict, and learning approaches to conflict resolution, managers will be able to establish an environment in which creativity and innovation is encouraged and project goals are accomplished.

8.    References/Bibliography

1.    Dr. Paul D. Giammalvo, AACE Certification Prep Course:

Day-3 P.94-106 Conflict Resolution Matrix (With ref to: Thomas-Kilman Conflict Mode Instrument): http://www.kilmanndiagnostics.com/catalog/thomas-kilmann-conflict-mode-instrument

2.    Ford J. Workplace conflict: facts and figures: http://mediate.com/workplace/ford1.cfm

3.    Teamwork using team conflicts:

http://www.vta.spcomm.uiuc.edu/TCT/tctl1-ov.html