Nec4: Managing a Design Build and Operate Contract

The book "NEC4: Managing a Design Build and Operate Contract" is a guide to managing contracts under the NEC4 Design Build and Operate Contract (DBOC) framework. Here is a comprehensive overview of the key themes, plot summary, and critical reception:

Key Themes

1. Contract Management:

   • The book provides detailed guidance on managing a Design, Build, and Operate Contract (DBOC) under the NEC4 framework.
   • It covers the core clauses, secondary options, and forms necessary for preparing, tendering, and managing a DBOC.

2. Collaborative Approach:

   • Emphasizes the importance of a collaborative approach between the client and the contractor, requiring them to act in a “spirit of mutual trust and co-operation”.

3. Operational Requirements:

   • Focuses on integrating the operational and service requirements of the client with the design and construction phases of the project.

4. Performance Incentives:

   • Includes mechanisms to incentivize the contractor to achieve or better the targets set for the operational requirements, such as performance tables and payment strategies.

5. Change Management:

   • Outlines a fast and fair compensation event process to handle changes and ensure no surprises during the project.

Plot Summary

The book is structured to guide users through the entire lifecycle of a DBOC, from preparation and tendering to contract management. It includes:

• Introduction: An overview of the DBOC and its purpose.
• Core Clauses: Detailed explanations of the essential clauses that form the basis of the contract.
• Secondary Options: Guidance on additional clauses that can be included to tailor the contract to specific project needs.
• Forms and Schedules: Practical tools for managing the cost schedule, contract data, and other essential documents.

Critical Reception

While there is no specific critical reception available for the book, the NEC4 suite of contracts has a global reputation for delivering projects on time, on budget, and to high environmental and quality standards. The collaborative nature of the contracts and their flexible structure are widely praised by industry professionals.

Additional Information

• Publication Details: The book is part of the NEC4 suite, which was released in 2017 and is designed to provide a more integrated whole-life delivery solution for clients.
• Target Audience: The guide is intended for clients, contractors, and project managers involved in DBOC projects, aiming to ensure that all parties understand their roles and responsibilities throughout the project lifecycle.

In summary, "NEC4: Managing a Design Build and Operate Contract" is a comprehensive guide that provides detailed instructions and tools for managing DBOC projects under the NEC4 framework. It emphasizes collaboration, performance incentives, and efficient change management, making it a valuable resource for professionals involved in such projects.