In addition to offering all of the traditional collective bargaining services, Bricker & Eckler LLP was one of the first to initiate widespread use of "concentration" or "interest-based" bargaining, a cooperative process that makes local issues of real concern the focal point of negotiations. Attorneys specializing in this procedure have successfully concluded contract negotiations in a positive, cooperative, and efficient manner, employing the three main principles of this process:

• Bargaining focused on mutual recognition of each side's interests;

• Collaborative, non-confrontational problem-solving of a limited number of issues of genuine concern (avoiding inconsequential issues);

• A commitment to conduct negotiations in a limited period of time, compelling the parties to focus on the real issues and reach agreement quickly.