Handling conflicts with co-authors while submitting a research paper to a mechanical engineering journal:

Conflict among co-authors is not uncommon during the process of submitting a research paper. However, it is essential to address these conflicts professionally and find solutions that can satisfy all parties involved. Here are some steps to handle conflicts with co-authors while submitting a research paper to a mechanical engineering journal:

1. Communication:
- Initiate open and honest communication with your co-authors to understand their concerns and viewpoints.
- Schedule a meeting or conference call to discuss the conflicts and find common ground.

2. Identify the issues:
- Clearly identify and acknowledge the specific concerns or disagreements causing the conflict.
- Break down the issues into smaller components to facilitate a more focused discussion.

3. Seek compromise:
- Encourage all co-authors to express their opinions and suggestions for resolving the conflict.
- Look for commonalities and areas where compromise can be reached.
- Be willing to make concessions if it helps maintain the overall quality and integrity of the research.

4. Mediation:
- If the conflicts persist, consider involving a neutral third party, such as a senior researcher or the journal editor, to mediate the discussions.
- The mediator can help facilitate a constructive dialogue and guide the co-authors towards a mutually agreeable resolution.

5. Follow journal guidelines:
- Familiarize yourself with the specific submission guidelines provided by the mechanical engineering journal.
- Ensure that all co-authors are aware of the journal's requirements to avoid any additional conflicts related to the submission process.

6. Document agreements:
- Once a resolution has been reached, document the agreed-upon changes or compromises in writing.
- Share this document with all co-authors to ensure everyone is on the same page and to avoid any future misunderstandings.

7. Maintain professionalism:
- Throughout the conflict resolution process, maintain a professional and respectful attitude towards your co-authors.
- Focus on the goal of producing a high-quality research paper and remember that the ultimate aim is to contribute to the scientific community.

By following these steps, you can effectively handle conflicts with co-authors while submitting a research paper to a mechanical engineering journal. Remember that effective communication, compromise, and maintaining professionalism are key to resolving conflicts and ensuring a successful submission process.