FAIR
(Facts, Assumptions, Impact, Resolution)
Helps you get clear on facts, challenge assumptions, understand the impact, and quickly find a solution that works.
How to implement
Facts:
Focus on objective and verifiable information.
Assumptions:
Identify and question any assumptions being made by yourself or the other party.
Impact:
Understand the consequences or effects of the situation on everyone involved.
Resolution:
Work collaboratively to find a mutually acceptable solution to the conflict.
Example
The following is a brief conversation with Alex that reveals a project delay was caused by an incorrect assumption.
”Hey Alex, can we chat about the issue with the project timeline? [Facts - Stating the topic] From my understanding, the deadline for the initial draft was last Friday, and it hasn’t been submitted yet. Is that correct? [Facts - Seeking confirmation]“
Alex: “Yeah, that’s right. But I assumed the deadline was flexible since we had that unexpected client call on Thursday.” [Assumptions - Alex revealing an assumption]
“Okay, I can see how that might have been your understanding. However, the impact of this delay is that it’s now pushing back the review process for the entire team, and we might miss our overall launch date [Impact - Explaining the consequences]. To resolve this, could we work together to get a revised draft to the team by the end of today so we can minimize the delay? [Resolution - Proposing a collaborative solution]”