The CCODR platform offers the only online dispute resolution industry-specific technological platform which is partnered with a Consumer Code. Unique features of the platform include end to end encryption (E2EE), a full suite of case management tools for alternative dispute practitioners, encrypted uploading and file sharing, and integration of digital billing including invoices, payments and receipts, among other features purpose-built into the platform to facilitate highly secure online dispute resolution sessions.
Speaking on the importance of using this platform over other commonly-used mainstream video conferencing facilities, John Keers a Co-Founder of the Consumer Code for Online Dispute Resolution, said, “As a direct response to the coronavirus crisis, alternative dispute practitioners have adopted the use of online platforms to continue to practice, for example, mediation. The issue with many of these platforms is the lack of end-to-end encryption, known security weaknesses, and the possibility of not complying with General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). When dealing with sensitive topics and documents, it is essential that alternative dispute practitioners are utilising a platform that is safe, secure and compliant with all domestic Data Protection laws”.
Noting the importance of a secure online platform for mediation Michael Bready, Barrister, Mediator and Arbitrator, added, “In addition to providing an immediate solution to the delays in scheduled mediation sessions, the launch of this platform answers an ongoing need to ‘unclog’ the courts by adapting the use of out-of-court solutions like video conferencing and online dispute resolution software. This need was echoed in Lord Justice Gillen’s 2016 Review of Civil and Family Justice in Northern Ireland, and we are confident our platform could also be applied to issues including small claims and family-sensitive issues which can be best resolved outside of court.”
In addition to providing a digital solution to get back to work in a time of incredible uncertainty for alternative dispute practitioners, the Consumer Code for Online Dispute Resolution is also encouraging a unification of industry standards. By subscribing to their platform, dispute practitioners will become part of an industry-leading body, developed to provide a set of unified standards, to provide a stamp of quality for dispute practitioners from varying legal and professional backgrounds and to extend consumer protection.
Discussing CCM’s drive to unify and promote industry standards, Gary Lyons, co-founder, CEO and, Mediator, said, “Dispute practitioners subscribing to the platform will also become approved under the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) Consumer Code scheme and will be able to display this badge of quality assurance online and in their documentation. Becoming featured in the list of approved members will allow the public to verify membership and build confidence and awareness of the standard to which a Code for Online Dispute Resolution practitioner is working, will allow consumers to have confidence in the practitioner and will provide the practitioner with a competitive edge within the industry.”
“Not only will dispute practitioners be part of an industry-leading movement to drive standards under the Consumer Code for Online Dispute Resolution, but they will also become part of a network of collaborative support,” said Aaron Moore, Head of Contentious Construction, Director and Adjudicator at Clever Fulton Rankin Solicitors and Director at the Consumer Code for Online Dispute Resolution.
“Bespoke CPD training opportunities will be available at reduced rates for members as well as the reassurance of working with a collaborative network of likeminded specialists in the Dispute Resolution field whilst the Consumer Code for Online Dispute Resolution continues to represent members’ interests within the industry and beyond as the flag is flown for the broader incorporation of alternative dispute resolution processes into common business practices.”
For more information on the Consumer Code for Online Dispute Resolution and their recently-launched online mediation platform, visit www.ccodr.com
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