In each case, arbitrators work with a mix of words, concepts, facts and people, ultimately arriving at a value judgment. Because parties perceive arbitrators as part of the collective bargaining process, “impartial” is a better descriptor than “neutral”. Experience informs arbitrators’ decisions, so complete impartiality in every case is unlikely. Parties consider competence as important an attribute as impartiality, but, if pressed, may deem competence more important.