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Paperless in Mediation & Arbitration services
Mediation and arbitration are widely recognized methods of alternative dispute resolution. People understand how avoiding court proceedings through ADR, such as mediation and arbitration services, can be more efficient and effective in many ways. Disputing parties have much more control and flexibility with mediation and arbitration, oftentimes with more resources available to them as well. Without the hindrances of court rules, fees, and scheduling, ADR offers opportunities for more expeditious resolutions.
Regarding these time and cost-saving benefits, online dispute resolution and paperless mediation and arbitration services stand out as having additional advantages beyond traditional ADR options.
Paperless Trend in Dispute Resolution Centers
Going paperless is a trend that is sweeping all sectors as businesses (and their clients and customers) demand more sustainable options. Not only are they seeking to adopt environmentally conscious practices because they want to contribute to conservation efforts, but they are becoming more aware of how paperless policies can also benefit their overall operations.
This approach extends to ADR. Many alternative dispute resolution centers worldwide are adding online dispute resolution to the resources they offer to conflicting parties seeking to resolve issues. “Online dispute resolution” (ODR) has wide-ranging definitions, encompassing any technology used to facilitate an alternative dispute resolution proceeding either in whole or in part. For example, the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) defined ODR as “a system for dispute resolution through an information technology-based platform and facilitated through electronic communications and other information technology.” This could refer to using Zoom or Google Meet to hold hearings or to conduct an entire ADR process using online technology such as Thailand Arbitration Center’s AMO 24/7 (see below).
Since there is a broad interpretation for ODR, there has been a concerted effort by many global bodies to offer guidance in executing ODR at international dispute resolution centers. The Council of Europe European Committee on Legal Co-operation in 2021 issued guidelines for using technology. These guidelines outline how members must establish confidence in ODR by ensuring that ODR facilitates and not blocks access to dispute resolution, applies the same rules and procedures as traditional dispute resolution, and utilizes technology and mechanisms that protect security. The International Council for Online Dispute Resolution advocates similar guidelines and accessibility, accountability, competency, confidentiality, and transparency, among other fundamentals.
Advantages of Paperless Mediation & Arbitration Services
As discussed above, ODR can deploy different types of technology. This article, however, emphasizes ODR that involves paperless (or minimal paper) usage. Therefore, when talking about ODR, it is vital to distinguish paperless technology such as secured online document sharing from, for example, video conferencing. The participants in the latter may still rely on reams of paper documents.
By its very nature, paperless mediation and arbitration are eco-conscious as it saves trees and helps protect environments from paper supply chain pollutants. Moreover, the benefits continue in economic and environmental savings from man-hours to fuel consumption, considering that paperless services reduce or eliminate physical storage and transportation needs.
Along with the lessened environmental impact, going paperless facilitates cross-border mediation and arbitration. International conflicts are becoming more commonplace in this modern age where people interact personally and in business across countries and time zones. Paperless services, such as secured online access to documents and virtual meeting spaces, allows parties to access information and participate in hearings from separate locations so that ADR can occur across borders while still maintaining efficiency and effectiveness. Additionally, parties can often access systems conveniently so that a single time zone does not bind them. Furthermore, it provides better conveniences to both parties as well as arbitrator and mediator, especially in certain cases with huge case claimed amount, as they may have numerous documents and it is complicated to conduct a manual search without electronic function.
This efficiency and effectiveness also include security. Advanced technologies provide disputing parties with the previously mentioned access while maintaining privacy. Furthermore, shared paperless services can track access and any amendments or edits for added security while providing an online forum for data sharing.
AMO 24/7 Service from THAC Arbitral and Mediation Online
Thailand Arbitration Center offers a range of online dispute resolution services, including AMO 24/7. AMO 24/7 is a convenient e-filing interface that allows disputing parties to file different documents, including Notice of Arbitration, Statement of Claim, Witness Statement, and more. Parties can submit these documents electronically to generate PDF files that can be easily accessed and shared with relevant parties. They can also pay relevant fees and track payment history through AMO 24/7.
THAC Offers Paperless Mediation and Arbitration Services
Thailand Arbitration Center (THAC) is a dispute resolution center of international standards that offers many online dispute resolution options, including technology for remote hearings and our innovative AMO 24/7 for e-filing and TalkDD for ADR in e-commerce disputes. Parties can avail themselves of our world-class facilities, conveniently located in central Bangkok. Accessible from public transport through the Phrom Phong BTS Skytrain and major roadways, parties can reach THAC whether they are local or are traveling in from an international airport. Along with our raft of ODR and paperless services, THAC is an ideal location for in-person and remote hearings. Furthermore, we provide an extensive directory of skilled mediators and arbitrators with specialist knowledge if subject-matter expertise is needed, and entire business and administrative services are available to support proceedings. For more information about our ADR and ODR services for personal and business disputes, contact THAC at [email protected] or +66 (0)2018 1615.
