Spring 2024 - Communication in STEM Professions - Conflict Resolution Strategy

🤝 Conflict Resolution Strategy for Software Development Teams
Course: Communication in STEM Professions (IT-226)
Focus: Team Communication, Conflict Resolution, Software Project Management
Tool: Written Stakeholder Recommendation Report

Project Overview
This project centered on developing a conflict resolution strategy for a software development team tasked with building DataNanny, a data security application. I took on the role of Software Development Team Manager, guiding both the technical progress of the project and the human dynamics involved in team integration after a company acquisition.

The scenario required the development of a professional recommendation report addressing anticipated interpersonal and structural conflicts between existing team members and newly onboarded developers from San Jose, California.

Key Goals:
Understand the functionality and audience of the DataNanny software

Identify potential sources of team conflict (e.g., miscommunication, role insecurity, cultural differences)

Propose a comprehensive, actionable conflict resolution plan to support project success and team cohesion

Highlights of the Report:
Defined DataNanny’s function as a user-friendly security solution for preventing unauthorized data collection, featuring AI threat detection, multi-device integration, and real-time network protection.

Diagnosed root causes of team tension including impersonal onboarding, educational disparities, and job security concerns.

Proposed seven core strategies for resolution:

Active listening and regular meetings

Face-saving communication techniques

Skill-based task assignments

Collaborative training programs

Third-party conflict mediation

Recognition and inclusion of diverse backgrounds

Cultivation of empathy and emotional intelligence within team interactions

What I Learned:
How to lead with empathy while managing technical project expectations

The importance of intercultural awareness, especially in global or remote tech teams

How to communicate solutions clearly through structured writing tailored to stakeholders

That technical success in software and data projects is often dependent on soft skills, trust, and team unity

Reflection:
This project taught me that conflict isn’t a barrier to success — it’s a call for deeper understanding and smarter collaboration. As a future data analyst, these communication strategies will support not only clearer insight delivery but also stronger team dynamics and stakeholder relationships. I walked away from this assignment with a new lens on leadership, and how to hold both people and projects with clarity and care.