More time and energy is wasted in discussing problems than in solving them. 
These sentiments from Henry Ford are all the more relevant in today’s world with its growing complexities and attendant problems.There’s an urgent need for effective problem-solving strategies.
In some ways, the workplace is like a mini-world.   Just about every organisation comprises people of diverse backgrounds, cultures and perspectives.Problems arise because people do things differently to other people, and they see things in a different way. 
A study by the American Management Association says managers spend at least 24% of their time on managing conflict.    It is also estimated that Fortune 500 senior HR executives spend up to 20% of their time in litigation activities.When conflict ends up in the courtroom, it can take a huge toll on management time and productivity, plus there is a risk of public scrutiny and reputational damage.Mediation is increasingly being used as a highly effective strategy for solving problems.
With these issues in mind, mediation is becoming an increasingly popular way of resolving workplace issues.The process is generally fast and effective, and is affordable.The statistics show that 70 – 80 percent of the time, mediations will end in agreement and will have a high rate of compliance. 
Court cases are generally matters of public record whereas mediations remain confidential.The whole process is very flexible and informal and isn’t as intimidating as a courtroom. Most often, the parties feel empowered by the process as they have been directly involved in negotiating the outcomes. Because the parties are actively involved in reaching a settlement, they’re more likely to uphold the terms of the solution.  It’s also generally a faster way of resolving issues, as often it can take a case years to get to the courts whilst agreement can generally be reached in a matter of days, weeks and sometimes even hours.
Mediation is solution-driven.Every problem is unique. Mediation looks at the causes of the problem, and works on finding solutions for each unique situation.   Issues in the workplace such as discrimination, victimisation, workplace bullying and even sexual harassment can be resolved through mediation using professional consultants.  
In the words of J F Kennedy – “Let us not seek to fix the blame for the past”.Let us all accept responsibility for the future.Workplace mediation is one of the best ways to set the course for a successful future.