Informal & Alternative Resolution
Thoughtful Alternatives for Resolving Institutional Matters
Not every matter needs to follow the same path to resolution.
When permitted by applicable requirements and institutional policy—and when the individuals involved voluntarily choose to participate—an informal or alternative resolution process may provide another (and possibly better) way to address concerns.
Ballast provides experienced facilitation of voluntary, equitable, and institutionally appropriate informal and alternative resolution processes. Our facilitators bring neutrality, careful communication, and an understanding of educational environments to matters that often require both structure and flexibility.
“We truly value the relationship we have built with Ballast. They are trusted advisors and an exceptional partner to our institution. Their expertise, responsiveness, and thoughtful guidance gives us confidence in navigating complex Title IX and other student matters. Most importantly, they take the time to understand our institution and approach each situation with sound judgment, care, and a genuine commitment to helping us come up with a plan. We are grateful to have them as a trusted partner. ”
A Process Built Around the Circumstances
Informal resolution is not simply a shorter version of another institutional process.
Each matter involves different people, concerns, relationships, and desired outcomes. A thoughtful process begins by understanding those circumstances and the institution’s applicable policies before determining how the resolution process should proceed.
Ballast works with institutions to provide a structured, impartial process while remaining attentive to the needs of participants and the purpose of the engagement.
Our role is not to impose a particular outcome. It is to facilitate a process in which participants can engage thoughtfully within the framework established by the institution.
Experienced, Neutral Facilitation
Informal and alternative resolution processes can involve sensitive conversations. The facilitator’s ability to communicate clearly, establish expectations, listen carefully, and maintain appropriate neutrality can have a meaningful effect on the experience.
Ballast brings experience not only in informal resolution, but also in investigations, adjudications, policy development, Title IX support, and higher education administration. Ballast team members have specifically served as Informal Resolution Facilitators in institutional matters.
That broader perspective allows us to understand where informal resolution fits within an institution’s overall response while remaining focused on the distinct responsibilities of the facilitator.
A Human-Centered Approach
Institutional processes involve real people. Ballast approaches informal and alternative resolution with empathy, fairness, respect, and discretion. We recognize that participants may enter the process with different perspectives, concerns, and expectations.
A human-centered process does not mean sacrificing neutrality or structure. It means creating an environment where expectations are communicated clearly, participants are treated respectfully, and the facilitator remains attentive to both the integrity of the process and the dignity of the individuals involved.
That philosophy reflects Ballast’s broader approach to institutional work: objectivity and compassion can (and should) exist together.
Supporting Institutional Capacity
Informal resolution may also prompt broader institutional questions. Are policies clear about when informal resolution is available? Do campus professionals understand the process? Are roles and responsibilities well defined? Does the institution have trained professionals available to facilitate when appropriate?
Because Ballast also supports policy development, professional training, advice and coaching, investigations, and adjudication, we can help institutions consider informal resolution within the larger context of their compliance practices. The objective is not simply to complete one process. It is to support thoughtful institutional practices that can be applied consistently over time.
Explore Informal & Alternative Resolution Support
If your institution is considering an informal or alternative resolution process, Ballast can help you determine what support may be appropriate.