Post-project dispute resolution within the construction industry is extremely costly to all parties involved in the dispute. This cost is measured not just in terms of the monies paid out to attorneys, consultants and forensic engineers, but in terms of the time spent by project and home office staff who are now prevented from working productively on future projects due to their involvement in the dispute resolution process.
Thus, it is important to educate all involved on the ramifications of becoming involved in the dispute resolution process. It is also important to educate the stakeholders in the construction industry on the various means, methods and procedures that can help lead to an early identification and resolution of disputes as well as to help avoid them altogether.
To assist in this education effort, the Claims Avoidance and Resolution Committee (CAR) has identified more than 40 Best Practices. These best practices encompass such diverse topics as project management, scheduling, contract review prior to and during the bid phase, the identification of key contract provisions and alternative dispute resolution techniques and forums.
Through a series of presentations and papers on the various best practices, the CAR acts as a clearinghouse to disseminate information to the construction industry and serving as an educational resource to CI and the ASCE with respect to claims avoidance and resolution.
To learn more about what the Claims Avoidance and Resolution committee is doing and learn how you can get involved contact Marvin Oey at moey@asce.org or 703-295-6397. In addition, the Claims Avoidance and Resolution committee will be showcased at the CI Annual Membership meeting in Dallas, TX June 27, 2007.
Construction Institute of the American Society of Civil Engineers