but now it can be a positive choice. The pre-mediation conversations between the mediator and the parties and counsel are the time to discuss how technology can support the process and create optimum conditions for the all-important dialogue and eventual settlement. If any of the following place a tick in the box for you in a dispute resolution case, then the virtual route is worth considering, at least as part of the blend: easier to get several people together at one time; reduced lead-time to mediation session(s); convenience of shorter sessions over a couple of days and adjourning/reconvening; flexibility in setting up private rooms for parties/ advisers; savings in time, travel and venue hire; and reducing our impact on the environment. More than that, participants’ feedback is that virtual mediations are an agreeable setting for challenging dialogue. And the evidence of virtual settlement success rate, which is on a par with physically located mediations at around 80%, confirms this. About Robin Burley Robin Burley is a Scottish Mediation Registered Mediator. He established his mediation practice in partnership with his wife, Lindsay, 18 years ago. Between them they have carried out over 600 mediations in commercial, consumer, complaints, in-court, workplace and employment cases, in fields of work from farming to information technology and higher education to housing, care and health. His previous career was in housing and community care and he has held executive and non-executive positions in the charity and public sectors. He has a Master’s degree from the University of Strathclyde in Mediation and Conflict Resolution, is a Member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, and is a past Chair of Scottish Mediation, the Scottish voice of mediation and register for mediators. Contact Robin Burley, Mediator & Business Coach Eskhill & Co Green House at Eskhill, 15a Inveresk Village, Musselburgh EH21 7TD, UK Tel: +44 131-271-4000 +44 7774 127809 E: robin@eskhill.com www.eskhill.com EXPERT INSIGHT 53 Participants’ feedback is that virtual mediations are an agreeable setting for challenging dialogue.
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