Escalation is a means of conflict resolution based on the engagement of more senior managers in the resolution of organisational disagreements. In procurement terms this may involve escalating contractual disputes to more senior managers in order to find a solution. The approach has the advantage that the new participants do not have the ‘baggage’ of the managers who were unable to find a resolution and, the delay associated with briefing each party’s managers may allow the perspective of time to defuse any emotion and assist the search for an equitable solution. See also Alternative Dispute Resolution.