On the other hand, because of the extensive effects and the impact partnering has on a project and the people working on that project, the description is difficult to pin down in a single idea. Partnering is many things. It is a concept of substituting an atmosphere of cooperation, among those involved in construction projects, for the traditional adversarial climate. In the late 1980s the Corps of Engineers started its partnering concept to reduce the litigation occurring on construction contracts. The Corps' Medical Facilities Office is now expanding the partnering concept to include the design process.
Adversarial relationships are less prevalent in the design process.
However, partnering still offers benefits to be gained. Through collaboration, the team can achieve a higher common goal than could be attained by any individual member of the partnership. Through a team building process, respect, communication, and trust are fostered mnong team members, which provide the oil for a smooth working relationship. Partnering eliminates friction among team members, allowing everyone more time to concentrate on producing the best possible solution. Partnering provides an added emotional aspect to design.