A process for the formative assessment (coaching) of mediators practicing from the transformative orientation was field tested at six different sites. Specifically varied were whether or not the mediator\u27s original training was in the transformative orientation, the mediator\u27s amount of experience practicing from the transformative orientation, and whether the role-play mediation sessions were live or videotaped. In addition to drawing conclusions about the qualifications necessary for a coach and the pros and cons of videotaped sessions versus live stop-action sessions, we developed guidelines for structuring the coaching process. We also identified a range of possible uses of the process