The monthly reporting procedure also needs to provide for the contractor to keep the client informed, on an ongoing basis, of the cost of any contended variations that have not been approved. Following this procedure, valid claims at the end of the contract can only result from the client's refusal to recognise the validity of the contractor's request for a variation at the time of the event. The techniques used should not be regarded as being solely preventative measures. Having to address issues at the time of the event should encourage co-operation and thus assist in sustaining a partnering relationship. Tenderer Selection Procedure Partnering will only work if due care has been taken in the selection of the partner.
Tenderer selection is the start of the partnering process.
It is just as much about the contractor weighing up the prospective client as the client the prospective contractor. The selection procedure needs to be a structured, controlled process based on objective criteria. References should be followed up, how the prospective contractor performs once given a contract, is a key element in the selection process. Care should be taken to ensure that reported poor performance is not due at least in part to the client. Track record in submitting unfounded variation requests and claim submissions is very important.