An approach used to find creative ways to satisfy as many shared and differing interests as possible. The approach is characterized by exploring options without commitments (or threats), using interests and standards of legitimacy to explore ways to create and distribute value, and the parties’ avoiding becoming a voice of authority. Also see “problem-solving approach.” (Bruce Patton, Building Relationships and the Bottom Line: The Circle of Value Approach to Negotiation [Harvard University Press, 2004], 4-5)
