Guidelines and policies for handling conflicts are designed to outline how conflicts should be managed within an organization. They provide a structured approach to addressing issues that may arise between employees, customers, or other stakeholders. Having clear guidelines helps ensure consistency in how conflicts are resolved, which can lead to fair and equitable treatment for all parties involved. This structured method not only aids in conflict resolution but also helps to minimize the escalation of disputes, fostering a more positive and harmonious working environment.
While other options might relate to broader business strategies, they do not specifically address the fundamental purpose that guidelines and policies serve in conflict management. Reducing operational costs or establishing competitive advantages may be outcomes of effective conflict management, but they are not the primary reasons for the existence of these guidelines. Similarly, increasing customer dissatisfaction is contrary to the intent of having such policies, which aim to enhance satisfaction by resolving issues effectively.