Parties will need to provide material evidence during the arbitration process. Some arbitrators may require that some types of evidence (such as invoices, pictures, and party correspondence) be presented in a specific format, such as in a binder and labeled in a certain order.
A good closing statement is analogous to the punchline of a joke. It should (1) be memorable and (2) re-present the statement in an unexpected way. It doesn't need to be dramatic, necessarily -- just a new view to leave with your audience.
Closing argument should tell the tribunal what actually happened at the hearing, take account of the full record as the evidence closes, and explain why the position laid out on opening was confirmed and vindicated. There can be no question that cases will develop during a hearing, sometimes substantially so.
In conclusion, an effective opening statement will tell the arbitrator in a concise, courteous fashion exactly what the factual situation in the case is, what the issues are, how the advocate wants the arbitrator to rule on the issues, and exactly what relief is being requested.
Much like the opening statement in a trial, your arbitration statement should lay out what the “evidence” – the written material – will show regarding the proper credit on the project. The Arbitration Statement is not established fact, just your assessment of the material.
Often, the easiest way to present a coherent theme is to state it in a straightforward manner as your introductory sentence: “Ladies and gentlemen, this case is about unfair competition by the defendant.” In other situations, the theme may come out more subtly, as you tell a story that slowly unfolds.
Opening statements are made by each party outlining what they intend to prove. The arbitrator could, for example, require the employer to present its case first. This will be done via witnesses, documents and other evidence.
The arbitrator's notes are ultimately the record upon which the arbitrator's memory of the hearing will largely be based. The opening statement should, in a concise clear fashion, outline the “who, what, where, how, and when” of the case.