Journal of the International Ombuds Association (JIOA)
IOA Journal Volume 9, Issue 1
The Art of Ombudsing: Using Multiple Frames to Resolve Conflict
Kathleen Moore
Abstract
Organizational ombudsmen play a vital role in framing problematic situations in order to generate
options for dispute resolution. This paper shows the utility of a theoretical but practical model taken
from corporate management literature (Bolman & Deal, 1984) that can serve as an overarching
framework for reframing organizational disputes for the ombudsman practitioner. This model can
(1) launch and add insight into ombudsman interaction with parties, (2) provide a shared vocabulary
to assist parties to a conflict to analyze situations, and (3) create a comprehensive narrative for both
personal insights and systems perspectives.
Canary in the Mine: Ombuds as First Alerts for Workplace Bullying on Campus
Leah P. Hollis
Abstract
Nationally, only Tennessee and California have enacted statutes to begin addressing workplace bullying (Yamada, 2015). Hence, workplace bullying remains a critical workplace issue. Responses from 401 study participants employed at 175 four-year colleges and universities in the United States indicated that 62% have experienced the adverse impact of workplace bullying (Hollis, 2015). Despite the debilitating impact in higher education related to employee disengagement, health issues, and the cost of turnover, many study respondents still perceived offices of human resources to be
ineffective in dealing with this problem. The ombuds office can bridge the gap by providing impartial and confidential support to visitors who report bullying. The purpose of this article is to highlight the ombudsperson as an early alert figure who can impartially mitigate personal and financial losses
for those affected by workplace bullying
Some Ideas…‘For Your Hilarious or Indignant Rejection…’:The Mary Rowe Keynote Presentation, 2015
David Miller
Abstract
This paper is an edited and abridged version of the Mary Rowe Keynote Presentation given by the author at the International Ombudsman Association (IOA) Annual Conference in Atlanta, GA, on 20 April 2015. It briefly describes the enduring impact and breadth of Mary Rowe’s work on the organizational ombudsman profession. It then asserts the importance of taking greater account of experiences and needs of organizational ombudsmen in all the regions in which they practice and suggests some concrete ways in which this might be done. The paper emphasises that the ability to demonstrate a clear capacity for internal self-regulation and accountability is crucial to build both internal and external credibility and respect for the ombudsman profession. Finally, the paper offers additional options for the profession to consider as a means to enable greater external accountability and respect.
Embracing Paradox: Three Ombuds and a Book
Jenna Brown, Jan Morse, and Jim Wohl
Abstract
Three ombuds from different U.S. academic institutions organized a book group to read The Conflict Paradox by Bernard Mayer. This article reviews the book and describes the ombuds authors’ shared learning process, which included an interview with Mayer. The book is highly relevant to the work of organizational ombudsmen and describes seven key paradoxes, including neutrality and advocacy. It provides valuable examples and strategies for conflict interveners. The Conflict Paradox can also serve as a tool for reflecting on one’s approach to ombudsmanry. The description of the authors’ shared learning model offers recommendations and key insights for others who may be interested in this approach to engaging with conflict literature.
About the JIOA
The Journal of the International Ombuds Association (JIOA) is a peer-reviewed online journal for scholarly articles and information relevant to the ombudsman profession. As members of a relatively new profession, we continually strive to understand, define and clarify the role and function of the professional organizational ombuds.
The JIOA will help foster recognition that what we do for our agencies, corporations, colleges, and universities is worthy of study. While we must vigorously protect the confidentiality of our interactions, we can still study and be studied to understand what we do and how we do it; what works well and what doesn't work; what our options are; how social, technical and legal changes may impact us; what the profile and career development of ombuds professionals might be, and other matters of interest.
The JIOA can facilitate a greater interest in ombudsing, enhance our professional standing, and serve to give us a better understanding of our dynamic roles and the impact on our institutions and agencies. The Journal also will allow IOA members, other ombuds, and other professionals to reach out to their colleagues with their ideas, research findings, theories, and recommendations for best practices and to engage in ongoing discussions of critical issues.
Learn more about the JIOA and the manuscript submission process.
If you have any questions about the JIOA please contact the co-editors via email at [email protected].
- Shannon Lynn Burton, Michigan State University
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