Our services

1. Risk Analysis

No matter what the context is, our first step in providing any solution is to weigh up the risks – as well as the potential we see. In many cases, a conflict between a business and its community or government structures may involve political risk, corruption, regulatory uncertainty and more. Through our analysis, we take the time to thoroughly understand the situation, and then compile a report outlining the issues and future scenarios. This could be a standalone report, or it could be the launchpad for further strategic advice and action plans, to help navigate an uncertain future.

2. Disputes and Negotiations

If a business is undertaking a specific activity, whether it’s a mass retrenchment or a community resettlement, this can be highly contentious among the wider community. In these scenarios, there are many differing viewpoints, opinions, expectations and motivations - which all require sensitive negotiations. We provide mediation services to facilitate a solution that suits everyone, whether it’s the business, its employees and unions, or local political bodies.

1. Company-Specific Solutions

If a company finds itself in a conflict situation, the root cause of it may have existed for many years before the actual conflict arose. Whether it’s employee dissatisfaction or community mobilisation, we’ll help you uncover why that conflict exists and what can be done about it. This process usually involves analysis, reports and strategic advice, followed by process design and facilitation. We always aim for our solutions to be long term and developmental, meaning that they allow a community and company to co-exist together harmoniously - long after our involvement has ended.

2. Industry-level Engagement

This service focuses on creating constructive engagement at an industry level. It’s particularly useful in sectors that have previously suffered from exploitative conditions, such as mining or agriculture, where the problems are often very complex and have a long legacy.

During this engagement process, we focus on changing the policy environment and improving relationships between all parties. Whether it’s designing innovative strategies to address legacies, improving communication to the public, building a common purpose within industry groups, or supporting the capacity of key representatives, we look at what solutions would work to address these issues, so that small windows of opportunity can open up for positive engagement.

Our overall aim is to change the narrative on both sides, by empowering all parties. This allows all stakeholders to come to a solution that’s in everyone’s best interests.