Aspects of the arbitration process which the parties can control in ways beneficial to all concerned are identified, and difficulties with and opportunities for arbitration are described. The U. S. Supreme Court's decision in the W.R. Grace and Company case is reviewed, and the possibility of serious ramifications in three areas is considered. Legislation addressing wrongful discharge litigation is urged, and recommendations of California's Ad Hoc Committee on Termination at Will and Wrongful Discharge are provided. The arbitrator's responsibilities are reviewed, and the choices he/she must make in cases involving discipline for absenteeism are examined. Additionally, arbitration without neutrals is addressed, and the Teamster's joint grievance committees are characterized. The representativeness of published decisions is evaluated, and proper publication procedures are delineated. Further, microcomputer use in arbitration is explored, and word processing is discussed as a tool of the arbitrator's trade. Appendixes list the officers and committees of the National Academy of Arbitrators for 1984-1985 and provide the report of the Future Directions Committee. Approximately 700 references are listed.