Guidelines for Agency Dispute Resolution Coordinators

Orientation and Training for DR Coordinators

Whether a state is only beginning to appoint agency DR Coordinators or is dealing with turnover of coordinators, it is important to offer initial orientation and on-going training. At a minimum, the initial orientation should provide background on DR in state government, an overview of statutes and relevant policies, discussion of coordinators' roles and responsibilities, introduction to available resources (including people and information), and an opportunity to identify their needs for further training and assistance. See Oregon's and Massachusetts' orientation agendas for a useful example.

States with DR Coordinators have found that training is most effective when done over a period of time in two to four-hour sessions. Levels of experience are likely to vary within the group, and this must be taken into account when planning the training activities. Some states find it useful to involve new coordinators in planning the training to ensure that their needs are met.

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