Two vendors are at odds on your FM project. How will you bring them to a resolution?

1 Understand Issues

Firstly, you need to thoroughly understand the issues at hand. Take the time to listen to each vendor's perspective without bias. This involves delving into the specifics of their disagreements, whether it's a clash of work schedules, resource allocation, or differing interpretations of project specifications. Remember, your role is to mediate, not to take sides. By showing that you value both vendors' contributions and concerns, you can maintain a level of respect and cooperation necessary for resolution.

2 Set Expectations

Clear communication is the backbone of conflict resolution. It's essential to set expectations with both vendors, clarifying the project goals and how their cooperation is vital for success. You should reiterate the terms of their contracts, emphasizing the importance of collaboration. Make it clear that while their individual services are valued, they must work together harmoniously within the project's framework to achieve the common objective.

3 Facilitate Dialogue

Encouraging open dialogue between the vendors is your next step. Arrange a meeting where both parties can discuss their issues in a controlled environment. As a facility manager, you should facilitate this conversation, guiding it towards constructive solutions rather than accusations. This may involve helping them understand each other's viewpoints and finding common ground. The aim is to foster a spirit of collaboration and compromise.

4 Offer Solutions

With a clear understanding of the issues and open dialogue established, you can begin to offer solutions. These should be practical and acceptable to both parties, ensuring that neither feels disadvantaged. Sometimes, this might mean revisiting the project timeline or adjusting responsibilities to accommodate each vendor's capabilities and concerns. Your role is to be a problem solver, balancing the project's needs with the vendors' abilities to deliver.

5 Implement Agreements

Once a resolution is reached, it is crucial to implement the agreements immediately. This might involve drafting a revised plan or schedule that reflects the new understanding between the vendors. Ensuring that these agreements are documented and acknowledged by both parties reduces the risk of future disputes. It also helps in holding each vendor accountable for their part of the bargain, which is essential for the smooth progression of your FM project.