ADR Process & System Design

975-A Elgin Street West, Suite 420

Cobourg, Ontario K9A 5J3

Tel: 416.489.4332

Fax: 905.342.9092

Email: leslie.h.macleod@gmail.com 

Leslie Macleod designs ADR processes and systems to address conflicts and disputes.  Design work may be done informally during a particular intervention.  For example, issues including where to hold a mediation, who should be at the table, and whether to hold a joint meeting of parties are all design considerations.  Formal design work involves specifically creating or customizing an ADR process or system which will be used in the future for particular disputes. 

The first step in a formal design assignment is to gain a full appreciation of the context in which the conflicts or disputes occur.  This includes gathering information on the nature and frequency of the issues; the parties and other affected stakeholders; and the relevant economic, political, and cultural landscape. The designer may rely on publicly available data, confidential information, interviews, surveys, and/or focus groups. Working with the affected parties is crucial to the success of the design initiative.

Leslie regularly designs ADR processes and has also designed a number of sophisticated ADR systems. She works collaboratively with clients and stakeholders.   She has, for example, designed a process for disputes between industry and environmental advocates, a whistle-blowing process for an organization in the midst of crisis, and a system for disputes between commercial enterprises and a federal regulator. One of her most significant contributions to ADR design is the Mandatory Mediation Program in Ontario, which she spearheaded and which has been a model for other jurisdictions. 

Leslie H. Macleod & Associates

Specialists in Conflict Resolution