Disputes in infrastructure projects
A research into the prevention of disputes between contractors and public clients in Dutch infrastructure projects
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Abstract
In the construction industry, disputes tend to arise frequently between contractors and clients. This is an important problem that must be solved, because disputes can have enormous negative consequences, both psychological and financial. Disputes particularly emerge in infrastructure projects between contractors and public clients. This study aims to identify the most important actions for contractors in trying to prevent conflicts with public clients in Dutch infrastructure projects from becoming disputes. This study contains qualitative field research: a case study of 10 Dutch infrastructure projects. Semi-structured interviews are used to gain insight into the emergence of conflicts and disputes, consequences and possible improvements. To prevent conflicts from becoming disputes, three important actions are identified: make agreements before conflicts arise, pay more attention to human interaction and learn as an organization of previous projects.