Negotii

Negotii is a term used in certain negotiation studies and online discussions to describe a structured, interest-based approach to bargaining intended to maximize mutual gains.

Origin and usage: The word negotii derives from negotium, the Latin for business or task; in scholarly contexts negotii is sometimes used to refer to negotiations themselves as a category. In contemporary discourse, negotii is used as a label for a set of practices rather than a formal theory.

Definition: Negotii refers to a negotiation method that emphasizes transparency, iterative exchange of information, and collaborative problem solving. It typically involves preparing with objective criteria, exploring multiple issues, generating options before concessions, and documenting agreements with verifiable metrics.

Key principles: Joint problem framing; separating interests from positions; generating integrative options; relying on objective standards; maintaining open communication; seeking verifiable and durable agreements.

Applications: Used in business contracting, procurement, platform governance, diplomacy, and conflict resolution, especially in repeated interactions or long-term relationships.

Status and criticisms: Negotii remains informal and not universally recognized in formal negotiation theory. Critics argue that the emphasis on transparency can be exploited by more powerful parties or slow down negotiations; proponents say it reduces deadlock and increases long-term value.

See also: negotiation theory, integrative bargaining, principled negotiation, BATNA, game theory.