The NIS is an experimental approach to developing coordinated strategies for investing public and private resources in communities. It assumes that there are legitimate differences among and within levels of government and private groups, and it suggests that recognizing these differences and attempting to negotiate agreements on priority issues among the interested parties can be an effective way of helping urban areas. The single distinctive element of the NIS model is its use of a neutral mediator. Agreements negotiated through NIS are not legally binding documents. The long-term success of NIS hinges upon the abilities of its participants to follow through on implementing the agreements. To date, implementation of the agreement in St. Paul is as planned. In Columbus, implementation is also proceeding. A year after the Gary agreement was signed, mediators reported that, of the 22 objectives listed as ready to proceed, 2 had been completed, there had been substantial progress on 6, some progress on 9, and no progress on 5. The Federal establishment may find difficulty in using neutral mediators on other than an experimental basis. Acceptance of the mediator indicates acceptance of the fact that the Federal system is a conflictual system. Twelve references are included.