How can you improve your contract dispute resolution skills?

I have always found it is very easy to get entrenched and emotional over contractual differences and find it impossible to see the other side. It is often worth getting an independent person to give an overview.

It’s helpful to understand why did the disputing party enter into the contract in the first place? Has something of significance changed on their side? Second, are renegotions a common business practice for the other party? Some regions of the world do this as a norm Third, what is the alternative? If the contract were terminated, are there viable alternatives and what economic consequences might there be?

Always sit down and think what the actual problem is Put it down on paper read it to colleagues and brain storm it. Then word a communication in none confrontational business communication (be it email or letter) I prefer both.

Win-win situations are always the best outcome but in the event of a serious breach of contract or one that occurred in bad faith it can be necessary to maintain a strong position that sticks to the letter of the initially agreed arrangement. Contracts exist to lay out the obligations of the parties and provide protection in the event they aren't fulfilled. Depending on the situation a rigid position may be exactly what is needed - but be aware of the potential risks/costs of defending that position and what can ultimately be won or lost.

Totally agree with this tactic. Do not back yourself into a corner where you have no exit. All ways have a back up tactic. even if it's a toilet brake so that you get time to rethink, cool down or phone a colleague

Roll play really works before you go into negotiations. Get some one to study the opposing position, and then play out the meeting. Do not do this one to one have 3 people on each side and take notes.

Time lines for both parties are incredibly important. To make sure there is no slippage on either side. Make sure each time slot is fully agreed and what are the goals to be achieved in that time slot

I have seen too many agreements fall apart when one or both sides don't honor the obligations that were set prior. Having clear and open communication on a regular basis will keep both sides in check and help mitigate when terms are being breached or are considered at risk. Hold each other accountable and assist if needed to keep the relationship positive and headed in the right direction. It's never time to point the finger, only to lend a hand and help each other.

If there is a dispute, is execution of the agreement halted? Eg force majeure What then happens with resolution, extension for example?

Read, Read, and Read again until you absolutely understand all responsibilities and expectations set in the agreement. Do not sign anything that you don’t have a full understanding of. Too many times I hear someone unaware of there obligations after signing a document. The time to ask questions and make decisions is before you sign and agree to verbiage you don’t comprehend. Take however long you need don’t be pressured into a deal you don’t know every obligation your agreeing too.