Construction Success

This code of practice assists clients in acquiring their desired end product and obtaining value for money in so doing. It is an authoritative statement of best practice, yet it is easily accessible to a wide range of clients and industry practitioners. The working group for this guide was chaired by Phillip Ward of the Department of the Environment. Aim of the code This code has been written primarily for you as a client of the construction industry, to enable you to achieve the best possible outcome from any construction project that you undertake. Most importantly, it emphasises that a successful project requires all parties to work together in genuine teamwork. Key issues A construction project needs the same degree of planning and involvement from you as any other important investment. As the client you must play your part and fulfil the responsibilities that inevitably rest with you. If you do not, you are unlikely to be successful.
You must: spend enough time at the beginning defining what you want and when you want it - it can be expensive to change your mind later make sure you appoint the right people to represent and advise you - they must be qualified, experienced and able to work well with you and with each other understand the risks involved in your project, quantify them, and make financial provision for them clarify your priorities regarding time, cost and quality take account of the costs of the project over its whole life, not just the initial cost of construction ensure that the financial and other resources necessary for the project are available when required meet the obligations imposed on you by statute, and monitor progress and performance. Scope This code explains your part in the whole process of developing a project. It also identifies the roles the project team must play. The principles of this code apply to all projects. However, the roles it describes can be fulfilled in a number of ways, depending on the nature of the project and the way you choose to carry it out. The detail and rigour of your application of this code should be matched to the demands of your project.
Those you appoint to the team will help in making the necessary decisions. The bibliography also gives references to published guidance on particular issues. Structure The code is structured into five main steps, each requiring a number of key activities. The activities are considered in a logical progression, but in practice the sequence in which they are carried out can vary, depending on your priorities, the needs of the project and your attitude to risk. Status The code is published by the Construction Industry Board and is based on the recommendations of Sir Michael Latham's 1994 report Constructing the Team. Although the code is voluntary, it has the support of client bodies and Government. It was prepared by representatives of both the industry and its clients.