FACILITATION

In conjunction with facilitated problem solving training and grievance mediation training, the Board provides facilitation services. Board facilitators are familiar with problem-solving processes as well as the issues presented by a typical airline or rail negotiation. A facilitator helps the parties get started with a problem-solving model, answers process questions and teaches the group to act as facilitators. Facilitation is not mediation. The facilitator typically spends a few sessions with the parties at the outset of bargaining, but in some cases, NMB facilitators may work with parties for an extended period. Mediation and Facilitation are separate processes. If parties engage in facilitation and then feel the need to engage in mediation, that remains an option available to either party at its discretion.

GRIEVANCE MEDIATION

Board staff provides both traditional and facilitated problem solving grievance mediation services. Using the traditional process, a Board Mediator serves as a "go between" looking for a solution that the parties may not have been able to explore directly with each other. Using the facilitated problem solving approach, a Board facilitator assists the parties in using a problem-solving model to find solutions to grievances. The Board encourages the parties to experiment with facilitation and problem solving processes because the skills learned lessen the need for the assistance of a third-party neutral.

GRIEVANCE MEDIATION TRAINING

The NMB offers a joint labor-management training program intended to help the parties resolve grievance disputes more promptly and more effectively. The program focuses on improving negotiation and problem-solving skills in a grievance setting. The parties are introduced to both facilitated problem solving and traditional grievance mediation processes through lectures and role-playing exercises. Traditionally, the training lasts for one (1) day, with both parties present. The NMB has just begun a new Online Grievance Mediation program through which parties can be trained without having to take time away from work. Traditional training still is offered in special cases and when parties wish to come to NMB headquarters in Washington, DC, for training.

FACILITATED PROBLEM SOLVING TRAINING

The NMB offers a joint labor-management training program designed to familiarize carrier and union representatives with the vocabulary and procedures of bargaining conducted in a joint problem solving environment. Programs are a mixture of lectures, case problems and role-playing modules. The goal of these programs is to teach participants to apply the principles of a problem-solving model to the practical disputes presented by a typical contract negotiation. (Program length 1½ days)

PRE-BARGAINING TRAINING

This program introduces the parties to Mediation under the Railway Labor Act. Through a series of interactive workshops participants have an opportunity to explore conflict styles and techniques to overcome barriers to settlement. NMB Staff offer insights into the RLA Mediation Process and Presidential Emergency Boards. The program also includes a session when both Labor & Management have an opportunity, through a panel discussion, to review their respective organizational/decision making structures with the group. This training is designed to prepare the parties to successfully transition from direct negotiations to Mediation.

SPECIALIZED TRAINING

The NMB offers specialized training in topics such as team building, contract implementation, etc. The ADR staff will work with parties to craft training that is targeted directly to the parties' needs. If you are interested in specialized training, please contact us regarding the general nature of your request.

ONLINE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

The NMB makes available to the parties a variety of online and technology based tools to assist in planning, problem solving, bargaining, and communication. The services are free to the parties, and specialized training in the use of technology is available. If you are interested in the range of technology tools available through the NMB, please contact us for more information.