Virtual Mediations Using Zoom
In these chaIllanging times, with everyone observing the very necessary health and safety measures of physical distancing and self isolation to address the Covid-19 pandemic, the “tried and true” approach to dispute resolution - in-person mediations - must give way, if only temporarily, to “virtual” online platforms in order for people to continue to be able to resolve disputes in a timely fashion.
Of the many such platforms currently available, Zoom, an audio/video conferencing service, appears to be the most “well-matched” for conducting mediations, with features that help “mimic”, to the extent possible, the traditional in-person mediation experience. These include “virtual” waiting rooms, a main room for joint sessions and multiple “confidential” break-out/caucus rooms. There is also a “live chat” feature, with the ability to share files and even Powerpoint presentations.
Zoom is easy to use and intuitive. You only require a computer or smart phone and an internet connection. You do not have to downoad any software or open a Zoom account. You simply click on the link you receive by e-mail from your mediator, follow the instructions and you are joined into the medation. There is even a teleconference link for those without internet access.
Zoom has been endorsed by the International Academy of Mediators as the preferred platform for conducting virtual online mediations, and I am using it for all my virtual mediations.
Below is a short You-tube video from the Virtual Mediation Lab which illustrates the way the parties and mediator interact on Zoom, both in/between their private break-out rooms and also together in a joint session in the main room. It also shows how documents can be circulated. Enjoy!