Thank you for responses on conflict resolution. I learn a lot from them. You're correct, OS is more than a planning process. I have also seen OS resolve differences, primarily because it helps with the issues of relationships and communication. My suggestion is that OS can be enhanced when participants have a basic understanding when they better understand their "interests" rather than their "positions." Remember that I am coming from a context of unions and management.
Just another note; there is a whole world of ALMC's (Area Labor Management Committees) out there that I think needs to be about OS. I hope that I can introduce others to using OS as we have in Illinois. Even though we are just beginning, we are seeing great value in OS. I appreciate the insight you all have helped me to achieve. Thanks, David Koehler