What Is the Interactive Process?
In plain terms, the Interactive Process involves:
- Communicating with the employee about limitations and job duties
- Reviewing medical documentation, when applicable
- Exploring potential reasonable accommodations
- Determining whether an accommodation creates an undue hardship
- Documenting decisions and outcomes
How We Support Employers
HR Consulting coordinates and facilitates Interactive Process meetings to help employers navigate this complex process with confidence. Our role includes:
- Pre-meeting review of documentation and job information
- Facilitating the Interactive Process meeting
- Supporting both parties in exploring accommodation options
- Ensuring compliance with ADA, FEHA, and employer policies
- Providing clear post-meeting documentation
Why Use an External Facilitator?
Improper handling of Interactive Process meetings is a common source of complaints and litigation. Our facilitation helps:
- Reduce legal exposure
- Maintain procedural fairness
- Support consistent decision-making
- Create defensible documentation
We understand how disability laws intersect with personnel rules, collective bargaining agreements, and labor relations goals.