Disputes over authorship should be handled promptly and fairly. Recommended steps include:
1. Open communication: Encourage open and transparent discussions among team members to clarify contributions and expectations. 2. Refer to guidelines: Use established guidelines such as those from ICMJE to objectively assess authorship eligibility. 3. Mediation: If internal resolution is not possible, consider involving an impartial third party or an institutional mediation body to help resolve the conflict.
