Twenty-First Century Partnering and the Role of ADR

Abstract

Ultra fast-track design/construct methods are being developed and implemented by the leading edge of the construction industry. Project parties are redefining the relationships needed to deliver technically complex projects in a previously undreamed of short duration. These partnering style relationships are designed to leverage the experience of past projects and to forge long-term business and personal relationships. Lean construction principles are being implemented by experimentation. Authority levels are built into the “systems” of the project. Since the project monetary and psychological incentives are built on common goals, cooperation and creative problem-solving attitudes are institutionalized. Issues are resolved at the lowest possible levels. Escalation of issues is possible, but looked upon by cultural definition as failure. Any formal form of dispute resolution is the last resort. Each of the partners has too much at stake in the relationship to consider litigation. However, driving decision making and issue resolution down to individual members of the self-managing teams has created a critical need: training of parties below the project-management level in issue-resolution skills.