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Towards an Integrated Workplace Mediation System: Reflections on the South African Experience

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Advancing Workplace Mediation Through Integration of Theory and Practice

Part of the book series: Industrial Relations & Conflict Management ((IRCM))

Abstract

Workplace mediation is more than merely a potentially useful process for conflict resolution and disputes in the workplace. Reuben (2005) argues that the new world of work – characterized by a breakdown of hierarchies, de-siloing of functions, flexible job descriptions, and greater employee mobility requires adherence to principles of democratic governance. In this regard, effective and constructive internal dispute resolution systems are a vital consideration for any organization. Workplace mediation, which allows for a large measure of party autonomy and self-determination (Reuben, 2005), plays a critical role here by channeling inevitable tensions in the work environment into a constructive direction, supportive of broader organizational change.

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Correspondence to Barney Jordaan .

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Jordaan, B., De Wulf, G. (2016). Towards an Integrated Workplace Mediation System: Reflections on the South African Experience. In: Bollen, K., Euwema, M., Munduate, L. (eds) Advancing Workplace Mediation Through Integration of Theory and Practice. Industrial Relations & Conflict Management. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-42842-0_8

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