What process involves a third party facilitating dispute resolution without dictating solutions?

The process in which a third party facilitates dispute resolution without dictating solutions is known as mediation. In mediation, the mediator aids the parties in reaching a mutual agreement by helping them communicate effectively and understand each other's perspectives. The key distinction of mediation is that the mediator does not impose any decisions on the parties; rather, they guide the discussion and foster an environment where the parties can collaboratively develop their solutions.

This approach emphasizes voluntary participation and encourages the parties to actively engage in finding a resolution that works for everyone involved. The mediator's role is crucial in maintaining a constructive dialogue and ensuring that each party feels heard, which can lead to more satisfactory and durable agreements compared to solutions imposed by other means.

In contrast, arbitration would involve a third party who makes a binding decision after hearing both sides, while consultation often refers to advisory interactions that do not specifically focus on resolving disputes. Negotiation, on the other hand, implies that the parties are directly communicating to reach an agreement without the need for a mediator's involvement.