Nec4: Preparing a Professional Service Short Contract

The book "NEC4: Preparing a Professional Service Short Contract" is a guide designed to assist users in preparing and managing contracts for professional services on smaller-scale projects. Here is a comprehensive overview of the key themes, content, and critical reception:

Key Themes

1. Contract Preparation:

   • The guide provides detailed instructions on how to prepare a Professional Service Short Contract (PSSC) using the NEC4 suite of contracts. It covers all necessary steps from initial preparation to final execution.

2. Collaborative Contracting:

   • Emphasizes the importance of collaborative working, mutual trust, and cooperation between parties. This includes giving early warnings about potential issues that could affect time, cost, or the usefulness of the service.

3. Simplified Management Techniques:

   • Designed for smaller-scale projects where sophisticated management techniques are not required. It is suitable for appointing project managers, supervisors, designers, consultants, or other suppliers.

4. Payment Structures:

   • The PSSC uses a price list with payments made either on a time charge plus priced expenses basis or on completion of priced items and quantities.

5. Change Management:

   • Includes a fast and fair compensation event process to handle changes effectively, ensuring no surprises at the end of the contract. This is facilitated by a continually updated and agreed program.

Plot Summary

The book is structured to guide users through the preparation and management of a Professional Service Short Contract. It includes:

1. Contract Data Forms:

   • Detailed forms for contract data, price lists, and scope of work to ensure all necessary information is captured.

2. Tendering Process:

   • Guidance on the tendering process to ensure that all potential suppliers are provided with clear and comprehensive information about the project requirements.

3. Contract Management:

   • Practical advice on managing the contract, including handling changes, ensuring collaboration, and maintaining a spirit of mutual trust and cooperation.

Critical Reception

While there is no specific critical reception available for this book, the NEC4 suite of contracts is widely recognized for its clarity, flexibility, and effectiveness in managing projects in the built environment. The collaborative approach and streamlined processes it promotes have been praised by industry professionals for improving project outcomes and reducing potential problems.

In summary, "NEC4: Preparing a Professional Service Short Contract" is a practical guide designed to help users prepare and manage professional service contracts efficiently. It emphasizes collaborative working, simplified management techniques, and effective change management, making it a valuable resource for professionals involved in smaller-scale projects.