Dispute resolution and settlement are related concepts used to address conflicts and disagreements, but they differ in their approaches and outcomes.

Dispute Resolution: Dispute resolution refers to the process of resolving conflicts or disputes between parties in a structured and organized manner. It encompasses various methods for resolving disagreements, ranging from negotiation and mediation to arbitration and litigation. The focus of dispute resolution is on finding a solution that is fair and mutually acceptable to all parties involved. It aims to address the underlying issues and concerns that led to the dispute, with the goal of maintaining relationships and minimizing adversarial actions.

Settlement: Settlement, on the other hand, is a specific outcome of dispute resolution. It refers to an agreement reached between the parties involved in a conflict, outlining the terms and conditions under which the dispute will be resolved. Settlements can be formal or informal, depending on the context and the parties' preferences. In legal contexts, a settlement often involves compromise and concessions made by each party to avoid the time, cost, and uncertainty associated with full-blown litigation. Once a settlement is agreed upon, the parties typically sign a contract or agreement detailing the terms and actions to be taken to bring the dispute to a close.

In essence, dispute resolution is the broader process of addressing conflicts, while settlement is a specific resolution outcome within that process. The methods and strategies used for dispute resolution can vary, and settlement is one possible result that can be achieved through effective negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or legal proceedings.