To address these challenges, i3solutions designed and developed an innovative solution: a new online arbitration system designed to simplify, enhance and automate the arbitration process. This system not only modernized workflows but also introduced greater flexibility and control for the arbitrators and those requesting arbitration with things like self-registration, account management and auto-assignment.

Arbitrators applying for registration must submit an online application for review and approval by FMCS. Once accepted, arbitrators are required to pay an annual fee, with the option to add up to 3 additional addresses. The new system empowers arbitrators with the ability to make annual fee payments and manage their accounts, allowing them to update personal profile information, education, certifications, affiliations, experience, associations, published cases, fees, policies, availability, geographic restrictions, issue and industry experience.

Requestors who typically register through the system represent either an employer or a union. The registration requests include essential details such as employer and union information, dispute location, issue, panel criteria, and any special requirements. Once the request is submitted and payment is processed, the system automatically generates a randomized list of arbitrators based on geographic proximity to the dispute site, as well as their compatibility with the specified criteria and special requirements.

The system also has the ability to create panels by comparing the details of the request with arbitrator information entered into the system. By default, a panel will consist of 7 arbitrators but allows for special requests to include more. The system generates a pool of available arbitrators then randomly selects 7 arbitrators to be on the panel with an additional 8 arbitrators to be considered as alternates. If the system is unable to provide enough arbitrators to fill a request the requestor is asked if they would like to increase the geographical area until the system is able to provide a panel with enough arbitrators.

A digital biographical sketch is generated for each arbitrator on the panel stating their background, qualifications, experience, and fees. The digital biographies are consolidated into a PDF that is automatically emailed to both employer and union representatives for review. Once both parties inform FMCS of their selected arbitrator and the arbitrator is appointed, an email is automatically dispatched to notify the arbitrator of their appointment. Once arbitration is complete, the arbitrator’s report and fee statement is processed by the system.

Another pivotal component of this solution entailed the meticulous migration of data from the legacy arbitration system. This process was essential to guarantee a smooth transition to the new digital platform, as it involved transferring critical information,

such as user accounts, case histories, and documents, while ensuring data integrity and consistency. i3solutions’ migration process encompassed comprehensive planning, data cleansing, mapping, and validation to mitigate any potential disruptions or data loss. By executing this migration with precision and care, the transition to the new digital platform was not only seamless but also ensured that historical data and insights remained accessible and preserved for continued use and reference.

Post-launch, i3solutions continues to play a pivotal role, providing further enhancements and ongoing support to the Arbitration system. This commitment to continuous improvement and support underscores i3solutions’ dedication to delivering long-term value to FMCS.