A project manager can choose from several techniques to resolve conflicts between team members.

According to the PMBOK® Guide, specifically within the Manage Team process, there are five general techniques for resolving conflict. Each technique has a different impact on the relationship and the project outcome.

Collaborate/Problem Solve: This technique involves incorporating multiple viewpoints and insights from differing perspectives. It requires a cooperative attitude and open dialogue that typically leads to consensus and commitment. Because it addresses the root cause of the conflict and finds a solution that satisfies all parties, it is the only technique that results in a win-win situation.

Why other options are incorrect:

Compromise/Reconcile (Option B): This involves searching for solutions that bring some degree of satisfaction to all parties in order to temporarily or partially resolve the conflict. However, because both parties must give something up, this is often viewed as a lose-lose or a " no-win " situation.

Smooth/Accommodate (Option C): This technique emphasizes areas of agreement rather than areas of difference, conceding one’s position to the needs of others to maintain harmony. This results in a lose-win situation where one party’s concerns are ignored.

Withdraw/Avoid (Option D): This involves retreating from an actual or potential conflict situation or postponing the issue to be better prepared or to be resolved by others. This is a lose-lose situation as the conflict is not resolved.

Force/Direct (Not listed but relevant): Pushing one ' s viewpoint at the expense of others. This is a win-lose situation.