If the way people negotiated moved steadily to an online platform, I would be willing to wager many of those who are used to getting what they want through negotiating would resist such a movement.

It is  fascinating to me is how much literature and coursework is available for improving negotiation skills. In a Forbes ‘In Pictures’ Article, the author lists out steps for effective negotiation and matches them up with their quotes. The 12 steps contain human elements (establish trust, understand the other side) that to me sound like ways to try to better understand what can’t be completely known (i.e incomplete or imperfect information).

In comparison to structured and strategic negotiation theories (like Game Theory) these are rather arbitrary. However, I do think the article points out how some people have a powerful understanding and ability for the art of negotiation. It is this human factor, talent or compassion, which I think online systems will lack.