The partnering philosophy: A procurement strategy for satisfaction through a teamwork solution to project quality

Quality management techniques and partnering in particular involve philosophies that require changes in culture which come from previous mind-sets and procurement strategies. The evolution of cultural change is addressed through total quality management into the partnering ambience which, it is argued, is a more cost-effective and satisfactory way of procuring construction projects. It identifies the client and who the other project stakeholders are, when and how the partnering process should begin and provides the details of the process at all stages from before the tenders are called for to the projects conclusion. It looks at the benefits that will result from effective use of the concept and also at the problem areas that could lead to failure. It stresses the importance of top management commitment by all the stakeholders, good communications and of giving adequate time to the initial stages and to the partnering workshop. The workshop and the project charter are essential ingredients for success but it postulates that the intention should begin at the inception stage and be communicated to and discussed with all parties prior to their appointment to the project team, whatever format tenders and subsequent contracts take.