Partnering is a process that brings together all the elements of the specification, design, supply and installation process in a strong working relationship in order to ensure the smooth and efficient fulfilment of client requirements.

 

Partnering is intended to drive up construction standards by encouraging client and supplier organisations to work together, avoiding adversarial positions, in order to identify ways in which costs, efficiency, quality and sustainability can be improved.

 

The degree of success achieved under partnering is measured using Key Performance Indicators (KPI's), and a commitment to continuous improvement is expected from all parties.

 

Partnering has demonstrably delivered improvements in quality, costs and timing, with common objectives achieved and the benefits shared. Examples of projects successfully completed under partnering arrangements are available from the umbrella organisation Rethinking Construction Ltd.

 

 

 

At the Client/Main Contractor level the partnering relationship may require formalisation in an agreement often based on a standard Project Partnering Contract such as the PPC2000 document.

 

This is a fully integrated contract designed to underpin a team-based approach that promotes clarity and confidence between partners. It provides a framework for partnered projects with provision for legal and professional advice on their implementation.

 

A formal contract may not be entirely suitable for the relationship between the client, contractor and product manufacturer but the principles are the same. Swish offer both formal contracts and general Collaborative Working agreements, both of which are tailored to client needs and are intended to ease the entire specification, supply and installation process.

 

For more information on formal partnering agreements and partnering in general please follow the links below:

 

Specifiers cannot be experts in all aspects of construction, nor do they have the time to become such. When a manufacturer is involved early in the specification process, problems can be designed out and creativity enhanced.

 

A satisfactory manufacturer partner will be able to demonstrate a commitment to Egan principles in their products, processes and services.

 

For further information on partnering with Swish please

Telephone: 01827 317200 or

Email: partnering@swishbp.co.uk