Hypertext and claim analysis

This paper suggests a new approach to the problem of providing computerized assistance in settling construction contract claims. Previous research on this topic has concentrated on the use of expert systems to try to predict the outcome of a claim, but has met with limited success. The proposed approach is to use a hypertext information system to assist in the analysis of a claim by informing contractors, owners, and their representatives of the contract provisions. The system does this by providing a precise hypertext guide to the contract wording, which is in turn linked to the relevant sections of various reference texts and descriptions of cases in which similar issues were determined. Careful structuring and linking of the data contained in the system are necessary to enable users to focus quickly on only relevant material. In this way, the system presents the users with the information they need in order for them to reach an informed decision on the validity of a claim.