The Society believes that for arbitration and mediation to be successful as alternative forms of dispute resolution it is necessary for parties who might use these alternatives to have available a list of persons who are knowledgeable about procedures to be followed and who are willing to serve as arbitrators or mediators.

Arbitration, in its basic form, is dispute resolution on the basis of an agreement or contract between the parties to the dispute. The parties choose one or more persons to hear their pleading and examine the evidence in a relatively informal setting. They agree on the procedure to be followed and in most cases the award is final and binding. In many cases the arbitrator will be chosen because of his or her knowledge or experience in the field of dispute. In such cases, a considerable amount of time may be saved in comparison to court proceedings. The arbitration process is governed by Alberta legislation.

Mediation is a process of dispute resolution where a mediator or trained negotiator assists parties to a dispute, who have each agreed to mediate, in negotiating a settlement. The process takes place on a confidential, without prejudice basis and is entirely voluntary. A mediator is usually chosen who has experience with, and an understanding of the area of dispute. Settlements can often be reached within a few hours when mediation is used, saving much time and money.

Arbitration and mediation are methods of dispute resolution which can be used in many circumstances. Neither is a substitute for court-oriented proceedings. Cases which turn on detailed points of law are most appropriately settled in court. Disputes which entail considerable technical evidence or the interpretation of a series of events may be more quickly resolved through arbitration, while disputes with a highly emotional content or which involve primarily questions of fact may best be resolved through mediation.