How can you use objective criteria to evaluate solutions and reach a mutually beneficial agreement?

1 What are objective criteria?

Objective criteria are facts, data, benchmarks, or norms that can help you compare and evaluate different solutions to a problem. They are not based on your personal preferences, emotions, or biases, but on external sources of information or authority. For example, objective criteria can be market prices, industry standards, legal rules, expert opinions, scientific evidence, or historical precedents. Using objective criteria can help you avoid subjective arguments, haggling, or power struggles, and instead focus on finding a rational and reasonable solution that meets the needs and interests of both parties.

2 How to identify objective criteria?

Before you start negotiating, it's essential to identify the objective criteria that are applicable to your situation. Ask yourself questions such as what are the main issues or goals of the conflict, what are the interests or needs of each party, and what are the possible solutions or options to address the issues or goals. Additionally, consider what criteria can help you evaluate the solutions or options, as well as where you can find reliable and credible sources of information or authority for the criteria. You may also want to brainstorm with the other party or a third party to generate a list of objective criteria that both sides can agree on. For example, when negotiating a salary increase, you could use criteria such as market rates, performance reviews, company policies, or industry trends.

3 How to use objective criteria?

Once you have identified the objective criteria, you can utilize them to direct your negotiation process and assess the solutions or options. These criteria can help you communicate your position and interests persuasively, while also helping you to comprehend the other party's position and interests. Additionally, the criteria can be used to create and explore alternatives, as well as negotiate and compromise. For instance, you can explain why your proposal is fair and reasonable based on the objective criteria, provide evidence or examples to back up your claim, ask questions about the other party's use of the criteria, brainstorm different ways to meet both parties' needs and interests, compare and contrast the pros and cons of each option, and make proportional and reciprocal trade-offs or concessions.

4 What are the benefits of using objective criteria?

Objective criteria can be immensely beneficial when negotiating and resolving conflicts, as it can improve the quality and legitimacy of the solution. This is because it is based on facts, data, or standards rather than opinions, emotions, or power. Additionally, using objective criteria can enhance the relationship and trust between the parties by showing respect for their interests and concerns. It also increases the satisfaction and commitment of both parties by finding a solution that meets their needs and interests, as well as being fair and balanced.

5 What are the challenges of using objective criteria?

Using objective criteria is not always easy or straightforward, and you may encounter some challenges or difficulties. Finding or agreeing on objective criteria may require research, consultation, or verification. Additionally, interpreting or applying objective criteria can be difficult due to conflicting or inconsistent criteria. Lastly, balancing objective and subjective factors is important since subjective factors such as emotions, values, and relationships are influential to decisions but not always captured by the objective criteria. It's essential to communicate and address these factors appropriately.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?