Arbitration is a form of alternative dispute resolution that can be more beneficial than filing a lawsuit. Participating in arbitration tends to make parties less hostile because they have more opportunities to present their side of the issue and address their emotions and needs. The arbitration process is private, which means parties are more willing to speak openly about the issue. Arbitration offers more flexibility and can be scheduled around the parties involved and their other obligations. Finally, arbitration tends to cost less than filing a lawsuit, in part because the process takes less time.