Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) covers a wide range of techniques and process designed to enable parties resolve their disputes with the help of a third party. This can include formal processes such as Arbitration and Adjudication and less formal processes such as mediation.

In the DRS Information hub explore the latest news and other interesting releases from around the world, covering all aspects of dispute resolution.

Latest DRS news

The role of adjudication in South African construction markets

As construction activity grows across South Africa and the wider region, so too does the likelihood of disputes. Delays, cost overruns, incomplete designs, and payment conflicts are increasingly common, often putting pressure on relationships, cashflow, and project delivery.

The role and responsibilities of expert witnesses in the built environment

Expert witnesses are an integral part of legal and tribunal proceedings across the built environment.

RICS Strengthens Ties with India’s Legal and Infrastructure Sectors

Over the past two weeks, RICS made a powerful impact in India as DRS Executive Director, John Fletcher, and Head of DRS Education, Mrs Raj Sohal, delivered the renowned RICS Mediation Training Programme to a full house at the India International Arbitration Centre (IIAC) in Delhi.

Women in Construction Scholarship Winners

Meet our women in construction winners.

Women in Construction Scholarship: Winning and Highly Commended Essays

RICS is committed to fostering greater diversity in the construction adjudication sector and is advocating for greater representation of women in adjudication roles.

What happens in a mediation hearing?

Mediation is a measure which individuals and businesses regularly use to resolve their disputes and avoid unnecessary slow and costly litigation.

Discussing disputes in Canada

Dr John Fletcher had an engaging and productive week filled with speaking engagements and a series of stakeholder engagement meeting. He began the week speaking on a panel titled 'Conflict Avoidance Strategies in Construction' discussion at the Ontario Road Builders' Association (ORBA) conference.

Our commitment to excellence and transparency in adjudication

At RICS DRS, we are proud of our robust and transparent processes that ensure excellence in our adjudication services.

Arbitration – adding another string to the bow

It is important that professionals in the built environment evolve and adapt their services and skills to survive and thrive

2024 Women in Construction Adjudication Scholarship Winners

RICS DRS are pleased to announce the joint winners of the RICS DRS Women in Construction Scholarship

John discusses the Arbitration Bill at the House of Lords

CAP - An Evaluative Approach to Collaborative ADR

The Conflict Avoidance Process (CAP) began life several years ago as a joint initiative between RICS, TfL and several major contractors.

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CPD sessions

Evaluative Mediation: The Shift, The Benefits, and The Demand - CPD Session May 2025

Join Raj Sohal as she leads a panel discussion with industry experts Theresa Mohammed, Paul Whittle, and Ed McCluskey on the growing role of evaluative mediation.

Stepping Up: Essential Skills for Party Representatives - CPD Session April 2025

Are you ready to take on the responsibilities of a party representative with confidence?

The Expert Witness in Australia: Roles, Responsibilities, and the Path to Excellence

This recorded webinar featured a discussion on the evolving role of expert witnesses in Australia, with insights from Robert Gemmell and a past Expert Witness Certificate delegate.

Women in Construction Scholarship

Women in Construction Scholarship

Dispute Resolution Service (DRS) is providing an industry scholarship for the RICS Diploma in Adjudication programme.

Women in Construction Scholarship Winners

Meet our women in construction winners.

Women in Construction Scholarship: Winning and Highly Commended Essays

RICS is committed to fostering greater diversity in the construction adjudication sector and is advocating for greater representation of women in adjudication roles.

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