What strategy should a communications manager implement to manage healthy conflicts during project meetings?

The strategy of creating a conflict escalation plan is particularly effective for managing healthy conflicts during project meetings because it provides a structured approach to addressing disagreements as they arise. A conflict escalation plan outlines the steps to be taken when conflicts occur, including how to assess the severity of the conflict, who should be involved in resolving it, and the processes to be followed to reach a resolution.

This proactive approach ensures that conflicts are addressed in a timely and organized manner, preventing them from escalating into larger issues that could derail the project. By having a clear framework in place, team members feel more secure in expressing differing opinions and engaging in constructive debates, which can ultimately lead to better decision-making and innovative solutions.

While other options may seem useful, they might not effectively promote healthy conflict management. Scheduling conflict conferences could imply a reactive approach rather than a planned strategy for ongoing project communications. A conflict ruling board may create a formal structure that might intimidate team members and hinder open dialogue. Implementing project-specific communication channels could improve overall communication, but it does not specifically target the management of conflicts when they arise.