Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Ombuds As Nomads? The Intersections Of Dispute System Design And Identity, Tim Hedeen

Faculty and Research Publications

Whether providing requested information, careful attention, informal coaching, impartial mediation, or upward feedback, ombuds operate within an “oscillating space” occasioned by contending purposes of their work. Their relationships to both their visitors and their host organization confer a dynamic identity, as they are at once supporting the visitor and supporting the organization. With which does an ombudsman identify, their organization or their visitor? Can the answer be both? This article will explore the opportunities and challenges arising from this tension.