Online Dispute Resolution can refer to two different things.
The first type are real world disputes mediated through web-based channels.
The second relate to issues in property rights[1]
arising in the scripted environments of Multiplayer Massive Online Role Play
Gaming (MMORPG) and the unscripted environment of Virtual Worlds. MMORPG disputes are sometime violently dealt
with by role players within games, although mostly players are governed by the
End User License Agreements. Virtual world disputes are mediated through role
play arbitrators appointed by the game developers or “wizards” of the world in
question, using messaging tools.
In either form, online dispute resolution or online
mediation specifically for the present refers to the channel by which mediation
can occur ie through online or web-based platforms. Whether it would develop or
metamorphous into its own distinct industry remains to be seen.
[1]
Barker, K., MMORPGing – The Legalities of Game Play. European Journal for Law
and Technology Vol 3, No 1, 2012
