What is mediation, where can you use it and why would you?

Mediation is people and people is mediation.

It is communication, confidential, impartial and voluntary.
It is flexible, and is an alternative to court action where the parties involved are in charge of the outcome.
It brings an end to conflict and the stress involved, and helps the parties maintain a relationship.
It involves open questions, helping both parties to explore the issues in a broader and deeper way.
It can be dyadic, but is more often triadic with a mediator who helps to facilitate the process, and by introducing a third-party helps people to soften their stance.
It is quicker and cheaper than using the courts.
It can involve an apology, and there is the process of reframing the situation.

The job of the mediator isn't an easy one, and it is a position of responsibility.

So how and where could mediation by applied? - At home, in schools, in the corporate world and in life in general.

Words used are important... the pause too. 'But' is pivotal but can easily be replaced by 'and' as a less aggressive alternative.

Mediation is / should be a positive process and help parties to reach a mutually agreed positive outcome.