Question

During a project, two senior engineers strongly disagree about whether to use a new database platform. The debate has stalled a critical safety-related deliverable, and a regulatory deadline is only two days away. The project manager has listened to both positions, but there is no time left for consensus. Which conflict resolution technique should the project manager apply?

Accepted Answer

Forcing (directing) — make the decision and impose it so work can proceed

Answer

Compromising — split the difference so each engineer gives up part of their position

Answer

Avoiding (withdrawing) — postpone the decision until the engineers cool down

Answer

Collaborating (problem solving) — facilitate deeper analysis to reach a win-win outcome