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The traditional mediation model is widely used but also widely interpreted with the emphasis being placed in different ways and having different outcomes.  What should be the responsibility of the mediator? Should the process of mediation be most important or should it be the outcome?

The role of the mediator is to enable clients to resolve their disputes so how significant is speed and efficiency to mediation and does such an approach deny sensitivity?  Indeed, is sensitivity necessary in dealing with workplace and property issues as well as with family matters?

A relatively new variation on the mediator is the mediator-practitioner in the Family Relationship Centres which raises a possible distinction between neutrality and impartiality.  In these centres are mediators with a counselling background more appropriate and is co-mediation more effective than solo?

There also seems to be an increasing use in the mediation process of supplementary experts such as financial and legal advisors and child consultants so is collaborative practice upon us?

Finally, are processes such as narrative and transformative mediation relevant or are they merely hybrid academic indulgencies?

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