How to reap the enormous benefits of this dynamic new practice SUCCESSFUL PARTNERING Fundamentals for Project Owners and Contractors In the tightly budgeted and competitive business environment of the 1990s, firms involved in construction projects can no longer (if they ever could) afford the suspicions, squabbles, and even litigation that have afflicted far too many projects. This enlightening book shows project owners, construction professionals, and others how to implement the recently developed practice of partnering as a more efficient, cost-effective, and far less stressful way of planning, organizing, and completing construction projects. Adopted by such organizations as the Army Corps of Engineers, its growing number of converts have reported fewer delays and lawsuits and other benefits, including a more cooperative and focused work atmosphere. With this new book–the only one of its kind currently available–practicing professionals will gain a solid understanding of the fundamentals of partnering and how to apply them to their construction projects. Successful Partnering It is a sad fact that as many as 70% of all construction projects will result in some kind of litigious action and this, in turn, will result in enormous losses of money, time, and energy for all parties involved. In the hope of avoiding this debilitating drain on resources, many construction-related firms have adopted the recently developed practice of partnering. In partnering, all participants work together and accept joint responsibility for the completion of a project. Successful Partnering shows you how to initiate and build partnering relationships in your projects, and how, with a united management agenda, a construction team can focus on problem solving instead of fault finding. Written by two recognized authorities on partnering, this unique guide takes you through the process of partnering, giving you invaluable insights from the perspectives of principal participants. By examining the case studies and numerous examples that illuminate the text, you will learn from the inside what works and what doesn’t, and how to maximize your chances of establishing a successful partnering relationship. Specifically, this book provides insights on such important issues as: Why partnering is becoming a rapidly growing practice in the construction industry and what the benefits are for owners, construction contractors, architects, engineers, and others How to lay the foundation for partnering: testing for good contracts, good teaming, and good partnering The fundamental principles and mechanics of partnering, including the roles of the facilitator and the trainer Legal aspects of partnering The personal and group dynamics of partnering and how they affect creative problem solving and efficiency Successful Partnering is an indispensable guide to a practice that is revolutionizing the way construction projects are being organized and completed. Written for all those involved in the complex work of construction–engineering, design, and construction managers; as well as lawyers, accountants, and suppliers, Successful Partnering is a lucid introduction to an important new development in construction management.