INITIAL SITUATION

• The client is commissioning a technically demanding new-build project with specialized functional areas.
• The schedule was no longer viable, and communication had largely broken down between the client, end user, designers and construction joint venture.
• Conflicts arose between user requirements and design, structural and building-services specifications.
• A legal dispute was looming, and there was no basis for continuing work on the project.
  

APPROACH

Lignum Consulting structured the mediation in four stages. Each stage removed a specific barrier to agreement.

1. Conflict analysis: Separate preliminary discussions with each party identified the project-critical issues in dispute and tested their willingness to mediate. Why it matters: In one-to-one talks, parties state their real concerns, which they rarely do in front of the other side.
2. Dialogue framework: A mediation agreement set out confidentiality, a standstill arrangement, and participation by people with decision-making authority only. Why it matters: The standstill paused legal escalation, and having decision-makers at the table meant that agreements held.
3. Solution development: We structured the conflict topics, clarified each party's underlying interests, and developed and evaluated options together. Why it matters: Separating interests from positions opens up options that no party brought to the table on its own.
4. Binding agreement: A final agreement documents measures, responsibilities, deadlines, and cost allocation. Why it matters: A precise written agreement turns a good meeting into a plan the project can execute.