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Dutch Environmental Ministry Adopts IBIS (Interactive Policy Making and Implementation Strategy) Method for Dispute Resolution

NCJ Number
105568
Journal
Environmental Impact Assessment Review Volume: 7 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1987) Pages: 85-88
Author(s)
A Hickling; B Breure
Date Published
1987
Length
4 pages
Annotation
The Environmental Ministry of the Netherlands has adopted the Interactive Policymaking and Implementation Strategy (IBIS) for the resolution of complex problems involving several parties with widely differing interests.
Abstract
In an IBIS process, representatives of all the interest groups come together to discuss a problem and compose a solution on the spot. The parties sit in a semicircle facing a wall with large sheets of paper hanging from it for recording participant contributions. Ideas, statements, and relevant points are recorded on the paper, which acts as the group's memory. The facilitator has expertise in working with groups rather than in the subject matter pertaining to the problem. The facilitator keeps the group process operating to ensure that all parties have adequate opportunity to contribute. The documented solution to the problem is structured to contain short-term measures and deferred measures. IBIS uses familiar elements such as the distinction between problem formulation, the generation of alternatives, comparison of alternatives, and the selection of a solution. Tools such as brainstorming and ends-means analysis may be used. Because IBIS provides a battery of techniques which may be applied in unique combinations to suit the problem, it is appropriate for resolving complex multiparty disputes. This article describes how IBIS was used to resolve a dispute between the Environmental Ministry and the battery industry regarding environmental pollution.