What is the process of working with conflicting parties to find a resolution called?

The process of working with conflicting parties to find a resolution is best described as negotiation. This involves direct interaction between the parties, where they communicate their needs, interests, and positions in order to reach a mutually satisfactory agreement. Negotiation is a fundamental skill in marketing and business as it seeks to reconcile differences through dialogue and compromise.

In negotiation, both parties typically aim for a win-win situation, where both can benefit from the outcome rather than a situation where one party's gain is another's loss. This process can include various methods such as bargaining, problem-solving, and consensus-building, which are all critical for effective resolution in disputes and fostering positive ongoing relationships.

Other processes mentioned, like mediation, collaboration, and arbitration, each involve different dynamics. Mediation typically includes a neutral third party facilitating the discussion between the conflicting parties but is not the same as negotiation, where the parties are leading the talks. Collaboration focuses on working together towards a common goal but may not specifically address conflict resolution. Arbitration, on the other hand, involves a third party making a binding decision for the parties involved, which usually does not allow for the same level of direct negotiation between the parties themselves.