The objective of this exercise is to help participants develop and practice conflict resolution skills in a controlled environment. By engaging in this exercise, participants will learn how to identify the root causes of conflicts, communicate effectively during disagreements, and find mutually beneficial solutions.

1. Read the Scenario: Each participant will be given a conflict scenario that commonly occurs in cross-team collaborations.
2. Identify the Conflict: Participants should identify the main issues causing the conflict and the stakeholders involved.

1. Assign Roles: Divide participants into small groups and assign roles based on the conflict scenario. Each group should have a mediator and representatives from the conflicting parties.
2. Role-Play the Scenario: Groups will role-play the scenario, focusing on effective communication and conflict resolution techniques.

1. Group Discussion: After the role-play, each group will discuss what strategies were effective and what could be improved.
2. Feedback Session: Groups will present their findings to the entire class, and the instructor will provide additional feedback and tips.

Background: The marketing team and the product development team are in conflict over the allocation of resources for an upcoming project. The marketing team needs more budget for promotional activities, while the product development team requires additional funds for research and development.

Roles:

• Marketing Team Representative
• Product Development Team Representative
• Mediator

Background: The sales team and the customer support team are at odds over a project deadline. The sales team promised a client that a new feature would be available by a specific date, but the customer support team believes this timeline is unrealistic and could lead to poor service quality.

Roles:

• Sales Team Representative
• Customer Support Team Representative
• Mediator

Background: The IT department and the finance department are experiencing a communication breakdown. The IT department implemented a new software system without consulting the finance department, leading to confusion and errors in financial reporting.

Roles:

• IT Department Representative
• Finance Department Representative
• Mediator

Instructions:

1. Read the Scenario: The marketing team and the product development team are in conflict over the allocation of resources for an upcoming project.
2. Identify the Conflict: Determine the main issues causing the conflict and the stakeholders involved.
3. Role-Play:
   • Assign roles within your group.
   • The marketing team representative should present their case, emphasizing the need for a larger budget for promotional activities.
   • The product development team representative should present their case, highlighting the necessity of additional funds for research and development.
   • The mediator should facilitate the discussion, ensuring both parties communicate effectively and work towards a mutually beneficial solution.
4. Discussion: After the role-play, discuss as a group what strategies were effective and what could be improved.
5. Feedback: Present your findings to the entire class and receive feedback from the instructor.

Mediator's Approach:

1. Establish Ground Rules: Ensure both parties agree to listen without interrupting and to respect each other's viewpoints.
2. Identify Common Goals: Highlight that both teams ultimately want the project to succeed.
3. Explore Options: Encourage both parties to brainstorm potential solutions, such as reallocating funds from less critical areas or seeking additional budget approval.
4. Reach a Consensus: Guide the teams to agree on a solution that balances the needs of both departments.

• Interrupting: Interrupting the other party can escalate the conflict. Ensure everyone has a chance to speak.
• Blaming: Avoid placing blame. Focus on finding solutions rather than assigning fault.
• Ignoring Emotions: Acknowledge the emotions involved in the conflict. Ignoring them can lead to unresolved issues.

• Active Listening: Practice active listening by summarizing what the other party has said before responding.
• Stay Neutral: As a mediator, remain neutral and avoid taking sides.
• Focus on Interests, Not Positions: Encourage parties to discuss their underlying interests rather than their fixed positions.

Conflict resolution is a critical skill in cross-team collaboration. By practicing these exercises, participants will be better equipped to handle conflicts effectively, ensuring smoother and more productive collaborations. Remember, the goal is to find solutions that benefit all parties involved and to maintain a positive working relationship.