Abstract:
In any workplace, there are problems that arise every day. Recognizing and understanding the source of the conflict is the first step in addressing the issue. Unless conflict is managed properly, it results in political, social and economic destruction of human beings. The cost of conflict depends on the type of conflict resolution system that individuals used to settle disagreements. The main objective of this study was assessing conflict source and resolution mechanisms in the case of Ethiopian road authority (ERA), Jimma district. The study was employed explanatory research design to investigate the outcomes of workplace conflict on organizational performance. The primary data were collected using closed and open ended questionnaire. The secondary data were collected using books, articles, journals and other published materials. This study wasinvolved216 samples of respondents. The questionnaires were distributed to the sample respondents of Ethiopian road authority (ERA), Jimma district, which are selected using stratified systematic sampling. The data that are collected was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools such as factor analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis. The results obtained from the analysis shows that there is a wide range of conflict in the organization, a problem of conflict perception is also observed, there is no enough special training and orientation prepared to change this perception, interpersonal conflict is mainly arises in the institution. The conflict management practice of the organization is found to be poor. To avoid the above problems; the organization should prepare several occasions in which the employees can develop the relationship between them, a special training and orientation program should be prepared in order to create better grasping on conflict related issues. It is also very crucial for organization focusing on resolving conflicts before escalating and result in negative outcomes on the organization environment. In addition, it would be important working on being knowledgeable about sources of conflicts, expanding resources, giving staff opportunities for growth, and also trying to embrace change. Additionally, several points are forwarded as a recommendation to solve the problems observed.
