Measuring Success in Mediation

Abstract

The present paper critiques the tendency to rely on settlement rate as the prevailing criterion measure for evaluating mediation. Instead, a multi-dimensional framework is offered, utilizing a decision tree approach. If a dispute is settled, then one set of criteria become particularly relevant. If a dispute is not settled, then a different set of criteria become relevant. Further, the evaluator must determine whether the mediator emphasized issue settlement or relationship improvement when evaluating mediation efforts that did not result in agreement.