Smartsettle One is optimized for single-issue cases.  It features the latest in eNegotiation technology in a server-based system that is accessible using only a browser on a Mac, PC or Linux. Distances are bridged and travel is reduced, making the system more convenient and eco-friendly than traditional methods. The system can also be used effectively in combination with face-to-face meetings.

The following explains the concepts demonstrated in this video.

If negotiators are not able to meet at the same time due to conflicting schedules or limited availability, they can negotiate asynchronously. Parties can simply make their move, log out and wait to be notified of the other party’s response.

Smartsettle negotiations are organized with sessions. Agreement is declared if there is an overlap of accepted values at the end of a session. If there is no agreement, the party that ends a session usually begins the next one. This tends to speed up the process if the negotiation would otherwise drag on over numerous sessions.

Smartsettle uses a process called Visual Blind Bidding that enables negotiators to keep their preferences private but still see what they are negotiating. All proposals and suggestions are clearly visible for consideration. What is hidden is the acceptance of the other party. Parties can quickly indicate what they are willing to accept without concern about revealing their hand. A deal is declared at the end of a session if both parties have accepted at least one of the same values. The tedious negotiation dance that characterizes most ordinary negotiations is virtually eliminated.

If one party is more generous than the other, Smartsettle rewards that party if there is an overlap of accepted values at the end of a session. This encourages parties to negotiate in a professional manner, quickly accepting what is fair and equitable. The illustration here is based on the insurance case scenario shown by the video posted below. Obviously, the best scenario is for both parties to be generous so that the negotiation is concluded quickly with one visit by each party. In that case, they are both rewarded with the savings represented by a quick settlement. See the related resources listed below for more information.

Final Session may be declared by either party. We recommend that parties talk directly with each other prior to concluding Final Session to be clear about what happens if no agreement is reached. It may be that simplifying the case to a single issue has prevented an agreement from being found. Smartsettle Infinity may be able to resolve the impasse. Another option is Dampened Pendulum Arbitration, which will guarantee an outcome. If parties agree to arbitration and no agreement is reached at the end of Final Session, Smartsettle uses the opinion of an expert neutral to favour the party whose last accepted value was closest to fair.

Contact us to find out more about Smartsettle One.