How do you deal with conflict in your project?

I think one of the best ways to foresee conflict is a good knowledge of stakeholders.
And for resolve conflict keep in mind to separate people from problems an real interests from personal positions.

Generally, I weigh all conflict against the question "What position would most advance the project's interests?", then I act accordingly. I feel this gives me the 'moral authority' to make difficult choices, especially when resolving conflict between individuals. Also, viewing conflict in this light usually removes it from the realms of subjectivity and personal interest, and makes the most beneficial path apparent.

Hi Eric,

You bring up a great point, and I think the answer to this question is really critical. Especially when there are multiple valid points of view, the ability to rationalise your strategy based on project objectives provides a clear path to make decisions and address conflict.

However, in my experience, project objectives sometimes flex and stretch based on stakeholders perspective. So while I agree that conflict can be addressed by leveraging from an objective position (in this case project interests), if I seek high moral ground, I'm concerned that I may alienate rather than build an alliance. Is this something that you have experienced while using this approach?

For me, I'd be looking to unite stakeholders underneath an objective position, and then use the common ground to deliver project objectives. That way we build an alliance as a foundation to project delivery.