CONCEPTUALIZATION OF COLLABORATION AND LONG-TERM RELATIONSHIPS

Abstract

There is increasing shift from traditional contracting practices to collaboration and long-term relationships (CLR) contracts in the construction industry. The purpose of this paper is to examine dimensions of CLR practices from a construction perspective. The research methodology employed is based on desk research. This involves the collection of secondary data on CLR practices. Nvivo Pro 2011 software was used to aid analysis of the multiple articles. The result indicates that top management commitment, willingness to learn and support the parties, mutual trust, complete integration of project team members, efficient and open communication are some of the requirements for CLR. Also, the procurement strategies that internalize CLR practices in construction are reported to be framework contracts, partnership and alliance contracting. However, these approaches are shown to be appropriate for specific kind of clients, suppliers, and projects. Consequently, the selection of parties to go into these procurement strategies for CLR becomes very critical to achieve the benefits that CLR have shown to deliver. This will ensure that scarce resources are only dedicated to relationships and processes that will genuinely benefit and support CLR. The knowledge and understanding provided by the study will be useful in encouraging construction stakeholders to appreciate the need for CLR practices and to embrace CLR approaches.