An overview of collective bargaining explains the organizational components, the types of situations in which mediation is used, and the differences in public-sector and private-sector bargaining. Mediation is explained in terms of its differences with arbitration; its basic philosophy; the types of mediation agencies; and the selection, retention, and training of mediators. Discussions of mediation practices explain procedural, communications, and substantive functions. They also consider the criteria to be used in deciding whether or not to use mediation and the escalating stages of mediation within an agency. Crisis bargaining is considered in terms of internal and external stresses, the mediator's role, and the customary features of bargaining. Discussions of other forums for mediation cover the mediation of labor grievances, the mediation of disputes occurring in emergencies, and bargaining in health care organizations. Public sector mediation and the use of noncrisis dialog are also detailed. Data tables and index.