Nonadversarial Negotiations: The FMCS Interest-Based Bargaining Program
George W. Bohlander and Jim Naber
DOI: 10.2190/PQWC-DYJ6-WVY4-G5YH
Abstract
Interest-based bargaining (IBB) is a relatively new negotiating process developed by the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) to facilitate nonadversarial negotiations. Based on the parties discovery and resolution of mutual interests, rather than the resolve of specific bargaining demands, interest-based bargaining seeks to improve labor-management relations and contract negotiations through problem-solving and consensus decision making. This article describes four stages of the interest-based bargaining process, including the tools and techniques used to implement this unique negotiating approach. The article concludes with an analysis of interest-based bargaining between the Salt River Project and International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 266, Phoenix, Arizona. FMCS regional offices can provide comprehensive information and training regarding IBB philosophy and techniques.
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