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Reactions to disputes in projects - PMI approach


03 October 2025

In projects, conflicts, misunderstandings, and differences of opinion are inevitable. According to the PMI methodology (PMBOK® Guide), effective management of these is key to maintaining a good atmosphere and team efficiency. PMI distinguishes six main dispute resolution strategies that can be tailored to the context and nature of the conflict.

🧠 Main Conflict Resolution Techniques (PMI)


1. 🕊️ Avoiding / Withdrawal
 

  • Description: Stepping away from the conflict, ignoring it, or postponing it.

  • When to Use: When the conflict is minor or a break is needed.

  • ✅ Buys time

  • ❌ Problem may resurface, not resolved

 

2. 🎭 Smoothing / Accommodating
 

  • Description: Minimizing differences and emphasizing common points.

  • Example: "Both of you have good ideas - let's finish the sprint and then revisit the topic."

  • ✅ Maintains harmony

  • ❌ Suppresses emotions, doesn't solve the root problem

 

3. ⚖️ Compromising
 

  • Description: Both sides give in to reach a mutual solution.

  • ✅ Quick decision, balance of interests

  • ❌ No one gets a complete solution

 

4. 💪 Forcing / Competing
 

  • Description: Imposing a solution by a person with greater influence or authority.

  • Example: Manager makes a decision in a critical situation.

  • ✅ Swift action

  • ❌ May worsen team relationships

 

5. 🤝 Collaborating / Problem Solving
 

  • Description: Open search for a solution satisfying all parties (win-win).

  • ✅ Lasting and quality solution

  • ❌ Requires time, trust, and good communication

 

6. 🙋 Accommodating
 

  • Description: One party agrees with the other's solution to maintain peace and relationship.

  • ✅ Preserves relationships

  • ❌ May lead to frustration and dissatisfaction

 

📊 When to Use Which Technique?
 

Situation Recommended Technique
Need for a quick decision Forcing
Desire for a lasting conflict resolution        Collaborating
Low-significance dispute Avoiding
Relationship protection Accommodating / Smoothing
Lack of full agreement Compromising

 

 

🧩 Key Leader Competencies in Conflict Resolution
 

  • Emotional Intelligence (EQ) - understanding one's own and others' emotions.

  • Empathy and active listening - key to understanding conflict causes.

  • Openness and assertiveness - necessary in dialogue and decision-making.

  • Building trust - foundation of an effective team.

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