A disagreement occurs when two or more individuals have differing opinions, perspectives, or interests about a specific issue. While disagreements are natural in any team, how they are handled determines whether they become constructive or harmful and create conflict. Effective prevention involves creating a culture of open communication, mutual respect, and clear expectations, where team members feel safe to express ideas before tensions escalate. A structured process for conflict resolution typically includes identifying the issue, this prevention algorithm allows to identify the location of the issue early. Additionally, feedback systems play a key role by providing regular opportunities for team members to share concerns, reflect on interactions, and improve communication practices before conflicts intensify.
This tool is designed to help you reflect and understand a situation, not to give one correct answer.
Every disagreement is different in depth, context, and complexity.
In some cases, you may need additional support (supervision, mediation, external perspective).
The algorithm helps you decide whether action is needed and what kind, but it does not guarantee a solution.
How to use algorithms?
Think of a real or recent team situation
Use the algorithm (yes/no pathway) to analyse it
Answer each question step by step
Identify:
Is there a potential issue?
Where is it located (communication, expectations, roles, emotions)?
Is prevention still possible?
Decide your next step:
Do nothing (no issue)
Address early (conversation, feedback)
Seek support (trainer, mediator, supervision)
Training-of-trainers course participants created this educational activity and resources to support trainers' development of teamwork competence. The Awero team organised the course.
This activity supports trainers’ competence development in the Cooperating successfully in teams area. Activity content and badge-issuing criteria aligned with the European Training Strategy (ETS) competence model for trainers working internationally. In particular:
- Contributing actively to team tasks
- Being willing to take on responsibility
- Encouraging and involving other team members
- Learning with and from others
- Being aware of the team processes and how they affect the team’s effectiveness
- Managing disagreements constructively
