4.5 The partnership is intended to be long term and it is therefore important that a strong relationship is built and maintained between all the parties. However it should be considered that personnel on both sides are likely to change during the project's life, so contract managers should not rely on individual relationships.
4.6 Key factors of an effective working relationship include:
• understanding of and respect for each party's point of view;
• shared knowledge and objectives;
• sound understanding of the contract and contractual documents;
• good flow of information and open channels of communication;
• a willingness to resolve issues within both organisations;
• effective decision making processes; and
• desire for the project to succeed.
4.7 The key relationship will be between the public and private sector contract managers. If this relationship is not constructive, a change of personnel maybe necessary.
4.8 It is essential that the Authority, the Contractor and users continue to build a strong relationship throughout the operational phase. Authorities could consider holding events such as annual joint planning days, partnering workshops and training sessions with their Contractor and sub-contractors