Originally from Dispute Resolution Journal

Construction contracting exists in a largely adversarial atmosphere where "collective needs and interests are either subordinated to individual needs, or ignored entirely." The result? Closed lines of communication, mistrust and escalating disputes. A growing need to counter this divisiveness has led to the evolution of partnering, a team-building process based upon mutual trust and respect that nips conflict in the bud and fosters harmonious re lationships among owners and contractors.