The RBO Process

Question 1

Who was Sam Franklin?

Answer 1

Federal mediator who worked with the city during its contract negotiation with firefighters in 1984 and who instituted the RBO process.

Question 2

Where was the “neutral zone” meeting held?

Answer 2

At the Little America Hotel in Flagstaff.

Question 3

What are the possibilities that the Action Plan addresses?

Answer 3

It will either implement a solution that has been agreed to, or it sets up specific steps that labor and management will take to come closer to an agreement.

Question 4

Action plan steps

Answer 4

1. Issue committee is formed
2. Co-chairs from labor and management
3. Members are chosen in equal numbers
4. Timeline is established
5. Committee meets quarterly

Question 5

What key aspect of the RBO process makes it still work today?

Answer 5

Protecting the relationship between labor and management is the ultimate goal

Question 6

When the RBO process works, what are some of the benefits?

Answer 6

Members gain because they are involved in the solution and change.
Management gets a “buy-in” from members and the best solutions to problems.
Conflict is handled respectfully

Question 7

What is the Relationship by Objectives goal?

Answer 7

To bring together labor and management in an open and honest arena to work through tough issues, deal with conflict, and reach an agreement.