Conflict management principles for groups and teams

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to propose research-based principles of conflict management that are grounded in practical experience. Design/methodology/approach – The paper presents a review of literature on topics related to each of four proposed conflict management principles as well as practical advice on implementing the principles. Findings – The principles are as follows: take action early in the conflict cycle; use ground rules to encourage productive discussion of disagreements; discuss substantive conflict issues openly with the entire group; and discuss interpersonal conflict issues with the entire group only if doing so is concurrent with the purpose, time availability, and skill set of the group. Practical implications – The principles should be useful to anyone who works with or on teams. Originality/value – This paper provides a useful review of literature and proposes four conflict management principles that are based on research and grounded in practice.