Collaborative Delivery Models for large and complex projects

Copenhagen, 04 October 2024:   The EIC Autumn Conference held on 04 October 2024 in Copenhagen attracted more than 80 delegates for a discussion on how Collaborative Delivery Models (CDM) can facilitate large and complex construction projects to ensure that these are on time, in budget and with the envisioned benefits. Concrete case studies with first-hand experience of implementing CDMs, as well the policy, legal and consulting framework were discussed. The interactive panel discussions further gave contractor executives in the audience the opportunity to give their views and ask questions, further enriching the excellent discussions.

Speakers from public clients in Denmark, Finland and Sweden

In a first session, the practical experience was centre stage. Public clients from Nordic countries gave experiences and insights into these models and how collaboration has facilitated the execution of their major construction projects, including the Fehmarnbelt Project from Denmark to Germany (Sund & Bælt Holding A/S), the East Link railway project in Sweden (Trafikverket), and the Jokeri Light Rail in Helsinki (Helsingin kaupunki – Helsingfors stad – City of Helsinki). The presentations and the ensuing discussion turned around risk allocation, the implications of fixed-price contracts, and the importance of building trust for a working relationship.

Speakers from the OECD, the legal profession and consulting industry

The second session discussed the possibilities of mainstreaming Collaborative Delivery Models. Procurement and contract experts from the OECD, from NEC Contracts® and from EFCA - European Federation of Engineering Consultancy Associations. The three experts highlighted how the proper initial project set-up will pay off in a more reliable understanding of the project’s financing budget and timeline. Through a transparent approach, and pain/ gain clauses innovations are encouraged and the risk of disputes diminished. The Chairman of the EIC Working Group CDM, Gustavo Martínez, emphasised the importance of implementing the collaborative approach over the entire life-cycle of the project, including the design phase.

Conclusions

EIC President Chauvin confirmed in his conclusions the importance of collaborative delivery models in the construction industry to ensure the smooth execution of major infrastructure works. A better dialogue between clients, consultants and contractors during the design phase of large and complex projects have the potential of saving significant amounts of time and funds, as well as avoiding disputes during the projects.

Links for further information

Presentations from the Workshop are available on the Speakers’ section on the Copenhagen Workshop Website.