Agile Tool Based Partnering Process Model for Construction Sector

Abstract

Effective inter-firm collaboration i.e. partnering in construction sector can lead to successful projects reflecting reduction in costs, timely completion as per schedule, improved safety, total quality management and reduced claims/conflicts or disputes.Thispaperdescribesapartneringprocessmodelwhichis completelyaweb-basedcomputerapplicationwiththeprincipleof overcoming the various problems that are associated with the traditionalormanualprocesstoachievecompletetransparencyat every step and at every transaction for achieving successful and strategic partnering relationships. The Partnering process includes Partner Registration, Partner Selection & Approval based on qualification criteria, Partner Evaluation based on weighted grade point average, Automated Generation of Quotation and Negotiation, forming a Partnering Agreement & setting up mutual goals & objectives and Generating automated Purchase/Work/Service order along with Time & Payment Schedule. Basis for Project Partners is to adopt a “Win - Win” approach to solve problems and develop \'Synergistic’ team work amongstthem

Introduction

In traditional construction projects, stakeholders like owners, architects, and contractors often maintain formal, contract-bound relationships focused mainly on individual gains. This results in communication gaps, disputes, and inefficiencies. Partnering is a modern management strategy that promotes collaboration, trust, and mutual goals among stakeholders. It emphasizes teamwork, effective communication, and shared responsibility to improve project outcomes, reduce conflicts, and foster a cooperative "us" mentality instead of a competitive "we vs. them" mindset.

Purpose of Partnering Software

To overcome common project issues—such as poor communication and legal disputes—a software-based partnering system has been developed. This web-based tool ensures transparency, faster decision-making, and cost/time savings by digitally managing all stages of collaboration between stakeholders.

Key Functionalities of the Partnering System:

1. Partner Registration: Collects detailed data on a partner’s credentials (general, financial, technical, and experience-related).

2. Qualification Sorting: Automatically categorizes partners (A, B, C) based on predefined criteria like expertise, financial health, and experience.

3. Dashboard Access: Approved partners receive unique codes and dashboards to view project details, timelines, payments, and communicate in real-time.

4. Request for Quotation (RFQ): Sent to suitable, approved partners, ensuring fair competition and fixed time for response.

5. Automated Quotation Comparison: Based on owner-defined weightages for time, cost, and quality, the system compares quotes and shortlists partners.

6. Negotiation and Selection: Allows for revised quotations and selects the best-qualified partner based on negotiation results.

7. Order Generation: Generates official Service/Work/Purchase Orders, including time schedules and payment terms, ensuring accountability.

Qualification Criteria for Partner Selection Includes:

• Experience in similar projects

• Financial stability

• Technical and managerial capabilities

• Reputation, communication, and client relationships

• Past performance and willingness to collaborate

Disadvantages of Traditional Manual Methods:

• Poor communication and lack of transparency

• Frequent disputes and change orders

• Paper-based documentation and delayed decision-making

• Rigid contractual focus discouraging teamwork

Advantages of the Software-Based System:

• Improved Communication: Instant global interaction via email and dashboards

• Efficiency & Transparency: Real-time updates, faster decisions, and reduced paperwork

• Security: Encrypted data and access controls

• Data Management: Easy report generation, document retrieval, and storage

• E-Business Features: Support for e-payments, e-commerce, and collaborative workflows

• Better Project Control: Live tracking of KPIs, timelines, and partner contributions

Conclusion

III. CONCLUSION Duetothecompetitivemarketoftheconstructionindustry, partnering has become an alternative way of doing business by encouraging the parties to work together towards shared objectives and achieve win-win outcome. Two individual partiescometogethertoformpartneringalliancesothatthey can make use of strengths and weaknesses of each other for successful outcome of the project. The purpose of this paper was to introduce a software based partnering process model and state its benefits over traditional manual method. 1) Effectivecommunicationisachievedwiththehelpofthe partnering process through only one medium that is the \'online system’. 2) There is complete transparency in all the transactions and dependency over human interactions is reduced considerably. 3) The risks associated are shared mutually and both the parties aim for effective outcomes. 4) There is Quick decision making and responsiveness in all the steps of the process. 5) Only genuine partners are selected due to the qualification criteria set right at the level when any Partner gets involved i.e. at the Registration. 6) Greaterfocusisontheend users. 7) Therearefasterprojectstart-ups. 8) There is reduction in defects during design & construction process and handover. 9) There is better teamwork and stronger strategic relationships are created which attributes trust, commitment and co-operation amongst them. 10) ThissystemaimsatZeroclaims&Disputesandsmooth operation of the Partnering alliance.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Gaurav Navnit Nagavkar, Prof. Mr. Rahul D. Shinde. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.