I would venture to guess that you have heard the phrase perception is reality. This phrase has
never been more relevant when it comes to managing conflict in many organizations. Technology and the ease of travel has brung the world together as never before.
Diversity in all its forms :race, creed ,religon and sexual orientation are permanent fixtures and common place. From This fact alone enforces the need for democratic aspects of conflict management in organizations.
Although easier said than done this must be a focus for organizations to continue and strive. Conflict amongst organizations is a given its nearly impossible to conduct any form of business without any tension.
By allowing group participation when it comes to queries and problems ensures that the individuals involved feel their voice is heard. This goes along way when tensions are high and you need each persons participation in coming to conclusions or taking on tasks.
Even if a democractic process is not allways pratical if you can incorporate just one group vote on an issue the perception perceived will be one of cooperation. People today are opinionated and tend to voice their concerns vocally and in mass.
In an organization this can spell disaster if you do not have a democratic approach in managing conflict.
Allways allow more than one opinion on how to approach conflict. Preferably stick to majority rule outcomes when it comes to program disputes,organizational changes and other aspects that affect the majority of the organization.
If this is not possible create a committe that consists of a large reflection of different members of the organization. Assign them with handling the task of dealing with the conflicts of the organization and have them bring the grievances to the person or persons in charge.
Again the perception exhibited here is democracy and nothing exhibits that more when a group made up of ones peers leads the approach of conflict management in the organization.