Treating members fairly requires understanding which situations are really comparable. Two companies can apply for the same intervention by presenting very different economic conditions, perspectives and risks. An identical response can therefore produce different effects.
Equality and equity are among the values recalled by the International Cooperative Alliance. From this reference does not automatically derive the legal solution of a dispute: rights and obligations require consideration of the applicable rules and acts. Here the problem is addressed as a matter of decision-making.
A useful management criterion is to state first which elements will be evaluated. For example, in access to a limited service relevant factors may include needs, capacity, costs for the organisation and benefits for the network. The list should be relevant to the objective, avoiding conditions added only after knowing the applicant.
Exceptions also require an explanation. A particular intervention may respond to particular circumstances, but it should leave a trace of the reasons and conditions. Otherwise it becomes difficult to determine whether a difference depends on verifiable elements or personal preferences.
A good procedure allows members to understand how to submit a request, what information to provide and how the outcome will be communicated. The predictability of the route reduces uncertainty and makes comparison more serious, even when the final decision does not satisfy everyone.