The old strategies for dealing with difference – deny, demonize and dominate – have defined zero-sum decision-making long enough, with dismal results. Prolonged “soft” conflict imposes submerged risks and costs on organizations.

For public agencies, the challenge can be even greater. In ideologically charged times, civic engagement falls to a nadir and towering public issues go unresolved.

Wharton Policy helps leaders manage conflicting policy “claims” and serve diverse client needs while remaining true to mission. We’re successful because we start at the root of the matter: differences in values, perception and ideology. From there, we create a continuum of value-based options, enabling parties to find sustainable accord.