Ombuds FAQs: How PRISM Helps Resolve Issues Within an Organization
What is an External Organizational Ombuds?
An independent, impartial, confidential, and informal resource employees at any level can visit to raise concerns and get support addressing workplace issues.
Who can use the Ombuds?
Employees at all levels of the organization.
What types of issues can I bring?
Challenging workplace behaviors and other concerns that may benefit from a confidential sounding board and informal problem-solving.
How does meeting with the Ombuds work?
The Ombuds listens, helps you sort and frame issues, and explores options such as coaching, facilitated conversations, mediation, or referrals to formal resources when appropriate.
What are the Ombuds’ four guiding principles?
Informality, Independence, Impartiality, and Confidentiality.
What does “informal” mean here?
Contacting the Ombuds does not start a formal process; the focus is on informal strategies to raise and resolve concerns.
How is the Ombuds independent?
The Ombuds reports to the highest possible level but is not part of leadership and does not make policy, investigate, or participate in discipline.
What does impartiality look like?
The Ombuds is neutral, does not advocate for any party, and facilitates fair process, communication, and option-generation.
Is it confidential?
Yes—visitor identities are kept in strict confidence; only themes/trends are shared with leadership without identifying individuals.
How does an Ombuds help leadership?
By providing an early warning system through aggregated feedback and partnering on systemic improvements—while protecting individual confidentiality.
What benefits can organizations see?
Improved morale, increased retention, and fewer time-consuming complaints and lawsuits.
What’s unique about PRISM’s Ombuds team?
Practitioners trained by the International Ombuds Association with decades of experience in informal conflict resolution, coaching, and mediation.
How do we get started?
Schedule a free consultation with PRISM to discuss fit and next steps.