negotiation and conflict management Flashcards
(52 cards)
What can help avoid conflict in construction projects?
Clever and effective communication
Clear information to all involved in the project process can mitigate misunderstandings.
What is a preventative measure to avoid conflict?
Ensuring agreements and conflicts are clear and unambiguous
This helps prevent misunderstandings.
Why is careful planning important before a project begins?
To avoid conflicts and misunderstandings
Using software or other methods can aid in planning.
How can expectations be managed in a construction project?
Maintain good communication
Keeping all parties informed helps manage expectations.
What attitude should one have to prevent conflicts?
Being open to compromise and demonstrating flexibility
Flexibility can help in conflict resolution.
What should be done to control conflict before it escalates?
Face problems head on rather than hoping they will go away
Early intervention can prevent escalation.
What are common reasons for conflicts with clients?
- Quality of work
- Falling behind in work
- Programme or design issues
Issues like installation of incorrect fittings may also lead to conflicts.
How can clear communication avoid conflicts with clients?
By keeping them informed on project progress and making them aware of issues
Open conversations help understand clients’ perspectives.
What issues may arise with suppliers that lead to conflict?
- Damaged items
- Wrong items
- Quantity issues
Proper paperwork management is crucial to avoid these conflicts.
What should be done to avoid delays and shortages during construction?
Keep in contact with suppliers and confirm delivery dates
Ordering materials well in advance is also important.
What can cause delays and limitations to the working programme?
Site constraints
A well-considered site layout plan can help avoid these issues.
What are potential reasons for conflict in construction?
- Ambiguous contract terms
- Breach of contract
- Late supply of materials
- Site conditions
- Quality and workmanship
- Programme delays
These factors can lead to disputes among parties.
What is negotiation in the context of conflict resolution?
Involves parties trying to solve problems and negotiate between themselves
It usually occurs in formal discussions.
What is mediation?
A third party is assigned to assist in resolution of disputes
This process helps facilitate agreements.
What is the adjudicative process?
A third party decides the final outcome and imposes a binding decision
This is often used when parties cannot reach an agreement.
What does conciliation involve?
A conciliator acts as a mediator to facilitate a settlement between parties
Any settlement agreed will be documented in a formal contract.
What is arbitration?
Involves parties presenting evidence and arguments to a resolution practitioner
The practitioner acts as the arbiter.
What are key elements of conflict prevention?
- Good management
- Good client management
- Clear contract documentation
- Regular reporting
- Record keeping
- Collaborative working practices
These strategies can help minimize the risk of conflicts.
What unforeseen circumstances can affect a construction project?
- Weather conditions
- Materials shortages
- Site constraints
- Staff shortages due to accidents or sickness
These factors can lead to project delays.
How can weather conditions impact construction projects?
Weather can cause time delays
Effective management involves monitoring weather reports and forecasts.
What is BIM and its significance in construction?
BIM allows for integrated communications and identification of clashes relevant to health and safety and design
This helps prevent arising conflicts.
What is the role of compromise in negotiation?
In compromise situations, neither side gets all they want but each makes concessions
This leads to an agreement acceptable for both parties.
What is a ‘win-win’ situation in negotiation?
Where both parties feel they’ve won and benefited in some way
This is ideal in negotiation outcomes.
What is a ‘lose-lose’ situation in negotiation?
Where both parties feel they are worse off
This is an undesirable outcome in negotiations.