The design and implementation of efficient and effective processes provide for their usage, not only to the broadest range and number of people, but also by accounting for the reality of cultural differences within and between jurisdictions, as well as differential access to resources and experiences of marginalization that can hinder access to dispute resolution and justice processes, whether formal or informal. ODR systems and processes effectively facilitate and do not limit the right to representation for parties in processes of dispute resolution.

The development and implementation of ODR systems, processes, and practices are accountable to the institutions, legal frameworks, and communities that they serve.

ODR systems, processes, and practitioners will be competent in or provide access to relevant technological or human competency required for the effective implementation of the dispute resolution process that they undertake to assist with. This includes but is not limited to relevant dispute resolution, legal, and technical knowledge; languages; and culture.

The development and implementation of ODR systems, processes, and practitioners maintain confidentiality in accordance with all legal obligations and in a manner that is consistent, in particular, with the principles of Legal Obligation, Informed Participation, Security, and Transparency

ODR systems and processes are designed and implemented in ways that seek to enable growth and positive change for individuals, relationships, systems, and society, thereby increasing access to justice and enhancement of choices and effective decision making opportunities.

ODR processes are designed and implemented in ways that treat all participants with respect and human dignity; that system design and processes enable silenced or marginalized voices to be heard and actively seek to ensure that privileges and disadvantages are not replicated in the experience of participation; that no participant is placed at a higher risk than others; and, therefore, that ODR processes are designed to respond effectively to the reality that some contexts may put some at more risk than others.

ODR processes are designed and implemented to facilitate and uphold due process, without bias or benefits for or against individuals or groups, including those based on algorithms. They are responsive to and reflective of the communities and stakeholders they serve.

ODR processes are designed and implemented with the intention that data is gathered, managed, and presented in ways to ensure it is not misrepresented or presented out of context.

ODR processes are designed and implemented and practitioners function with commitment to reducing bias in the delivery of the process. This includes accounting for conditions that could structure patterns of privilege in process and outcome for repeat players with particular attention to the principles of Accessibility, Fairness, and Transparency.

In the development and implementation of ODR systems and processes active effort is made to ensure (1) explicit disclosure to participants of all information about risks and benefits of the process, (2) the competency of participants to evaluate the information about participation in the process, (3) understanding by participants of the information, (4) whenever possible, the voluntary acceptance by the participants of the risks of participating; and whenever voluntary consent is not possible due to the mandatory nature of participation than that is made transparent.

Online dispute resolution continues to innovate to improve the delivery of dispute resolution services and benefits more fairly, effectively, and efficiently in ways that increase peace, trust and access to justice.

ODR processes are effectively integrated both internally within a system and externally with other systems, networks, and entities. Technology serves the dispute resolution process as seamlessly as possible. The application of technology and of dispute resolution is designed and implemented in the context of their linkages with other existing systems and networks and of knowledge that new ones will emerge. This is implemented with special attention to the integration with public entities to enhance inclusiveness and access to justice.

The design and implementation of ODR systems and processes uphold the laws of relevant jurisdictions and ensure that relevant laws are known and followed in the context of the principles of Accessibility, Informed Participation, and Transparency.

ODR systems and practitioners function with independence from the disputing parties, and any conflicts of interest are made transparent.

ODR design and implementation seek to prevent and minimize harm and risk for those involved in dispute resolution processes, with particular attention to those most marginalized and with least access to justice.

All reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the data and communication between the parties and other entities linked to ODR processes are secure to the fullest extent of the law, making transparent any known limitations.

All reasonable efforts are taken to make transparent the true purposes, risks, and legal obligations inclusive of but not limited to: the form and legal jurisdiction of dispute resolution processes; the identities, affiliations, obligations, and conflicts of interest of the parties, entities, and systems; and the data security, confidentiality, and privacy policies and systems involved.

Ethical Principles are courtesy of the National Center for Technology and Dispute Resolutions.