Data Considerations for a Smart Fourth Party in an Online Dispute Resolution System

Online Dispute Resolution systems enable parties to resolve conflicts at a distance by harnessing the connectivity of the internet. Online Dispute Resolution systems are a subset of alternate dispute resolution systems which include such things as negotiation, mediation and arbitration. In these situations two parties (known traditionally as the first and second party) present their case to a trusted third party (such as an impartial mediator or impartial arbitrator). In the case of an Online Dispute Resolution system, a technology platform enables the case to proceed. Katsch and Rifkin names this technology platform the Fourth Party and itemised a number of features which this fourth party should have. This paper will summarize some of Katsch and Rifkin’s finding and then specifically expand on how the data collected by the fourth party can be used to assist in the dispute resolution process.