Towards the Development of Generic Computer Assisted Dispute Resolution, Based on Conflict Theory

Abstract

Online dispute resolution (ODR) may be described as an attempt to use the internet to mainstream alternative dispute resolution (ADR). The question how conflict resolution and information technology interact at a fundamental level has received little attention. Improving information exchange about the substantive issues in a conflict prevents escalation of conflict and assists in resolution. Dispute resolution always involves separation of substantive and emotional issues. This is achieved by means of the process and/or by the involvement of the neutral. Creating ODR systems thus involves the question how this ‘separation’ may be automated. This paper reports on a project of which the ultimate goal is to create a generic Computer Assisted Dispute Resolution (CADR) system by analysing the structure of conflict and the role of information exchange in it.

Keywords: ODR,dispute resolution,conflict,emotion