Building procurement: The partnering paradigm

This paper forms part of the first stage of a three year doctorate research project that focuses upon partnering down the supply chain and it draws upon an in-depth literature review on project partnering concepts. Partnering is reviewed in terms of the various construction procurement options available to clients and contractors. Many within the construction industry see partnering itself as a procurement option. However, this paper explores the possibility that partnering and the partnering paradigm should be considered as a methodology for establishing a non-contractual working relationship in tandem with an established procurement route or contractual relationship. This paper highlights the need for a change in culture and approach to optimize partnering applications.