Hard Stop or New Beginning? A Fresh Look at Impasse and Implementation.

Impasse and implementation are among the most controversial concepts in contemporary collective bargaining. Some critics view impasse implementation as an aggressive, hardball bargaining strategy; inherently destructive to the collective bargaining process. Proponents argue that resorting to implementation, whenever good faith bargaining has been exhausted, may be an employer’s only safe harbor to remain economically viable. 

Because of the associated risks and consequences, final offer implementation can be a strategic minefield for even the most sophisticated management negotiator. Union bargainers are also often tentative concerning the best options to pursue in response to unilateral implementation. The dynamic can raise as many questions as it resolves for the respective advocates.

With a panel of respected practitioners from both sides, this workshop will provide real-world insights into this provocative, timely topic. 

Is Video Arbitration in Your Future?  

The use of video to conduct hearings has become common in many administrative settings and in some courts. Many labor arbitrators have made use of video testimony and some have conducted full hearings by video. Talk of much more extensive use of video in the conduct of labor arbitration hearings is growing as parties consider options to reduce costs, save time, and increase efficiency. The panel will discuss video arbitration, and the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead as use of video and online platforms become more common. Pros and cons will be considered from the perspective of arbitrators and parties. The role FMCS might play as will also be part of the discussion.

What Bias Monsters are Lurking in Your Closet? How Understanding Implicit Bias Can Make You Better. 

The workplace can either be a toxic environment, rife with bullying, harassment, and conflict, or a work environment where employees are respectful and considerate in their interactions with one another, as well as with customers, clients, and the public.  We will discuss the impact of the workplace culture on productivity and collaboration on how to recognize and diminish incivility in the workplace, and what you can do to promote a culture of courtesy, respect, and collaboration. We’re all biased and becoming aware of our own biases will help us mitigate them in the workplace. This workshop will address bullying, micro-aggressions, and implicit bias. This highly interactive workshop will include actions we can take to uncover and reduce some of our biases, utilizing Liberating Structures for Group Participation and an Online Quiz from Harvard’s Project Implicit which the participants take anonymously.  (Formerly Workplace Bullying)