Mediation is a process in which parties to a dispute come together with the help of a neutral third party to discuss their differences and attempt to reach an agreement. It can be used in many different types of conflicts, such as family disputes, workplace disputes, labor-management issues, and international conflicts. The goal of mediation is to help the parties involved reach an amicable solution that will satisfy both sides. The mediator does not make decisions or impose solutions on the parties; instead they facilitate communication between them and help them find common ground. Mediation is often less expensive and time-consuming than going through court proceedings, making it an attractive option for those looking for an alternative dispute resolution mechanism.