The Office (US)

Disorder erupts in the Dunder Mifflin office after Michael assumes the conflict‑resolution duties that are normally carried out by the human‑resources department. His unilateral takeover triggers a chaotic atmosphere throughout the workplace, with staff struggling to adjust to his unorthodox approach.

The series Conflict Resolution delivers a single episode that focuses on everyday workplace interactions. Set in the familiar Dunder Mifflin office, the programme presents a snapshot of office life, highlighting the usual channels through which disputes are dealt with and the role that human resources typically plays in maintaining order. In this particular episode, Michael decides to assume the duties of conflict resolution that are ordinarily performed by the human‑resources department. By choosing to step into a role normally reserved for HR, he places himself at the centre of the office’s dispute‑handling process, effectively bypassing the standard procedures that staff normally rely upon. The shift in responsibility quickly triggers disorder throughout the workplace. As Michael attempts to mediate without the formal framework provided by HR, tensions rise and confusion spreads among the employees. The lack of established guidelines leaves the staff navigating unfamiliar ground, and the resulting turmoil underscores how the office’s usual equilibrium is disturbed when an untrained individual takes charge of delicate matters. Overall, the episode illustrates the consequences of bypassing established conflict‑resolution channels. By putting the task in Michael’s hands, the narrative shows how the Dunder Mifflin environment spirals into chaos, highlighting why the human‑resources function exists to keep the workplace orderly and prevent disputes from escalating.