In collaboration with the University of Michigan, DUSP PhD student Sanjana Paul is running a simulation on data center conflicts as part of U-M climate week programming.
Paul developed this simulation under the supervision of her PhD advisor, Larry Susskind, and published it through the Harvard Program on Negotiation website earlier this year.
Event description:
Join an interactive negotiation role-play exploring how communities, industry representatives, and public decision-makers navigate complex choices surrounding data-center development. Participants will take on the roles of diverse stakeholders and explore whether a shared agreement is possible. Participants will practice moving beyond zero-sum thinking, framing issues strategically, building coalitions, and navigating compromise without sacrificing core priorities. The simulation recognizes that not everything is negotiable and reaching an agreement is not required. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the trade-offs, interests, and power dynamics shaping this timely, local topic, along with practical collaboration and negotiation skills applicable in other settings. No prior negotiation or data-center expertise is required. Appetizers and refreshments provided.
