In mediation and other alternative dispute resolution (ADR) processes, context matters. For instance, it makes sense that a facilitative mediator would want all sides to share their perspectives and viewpoints on themselves, on the other parties, and ultimately on the conflict itself. This is because the context of a conflict—and those involved in it—provides the raw material to work with when making the crucial pivot from focusing on the past to building a new future. Similarly, when tackling a large topic such as this one, it helps to provide some context so that the reader has something to work with as well. Accordingly, some background information is in order.
