Conflict between public and private partners may be inevitable (Edwards et al 2004: p.55). Broadly speaking, disagreements can arise over timeframes, costs and quality issues (Leung et al 2004) as well as project priorities, human resources issues (Thamhain and Wilemon 1975) and the interpretation of contract requirements due to individual or organisational biases or preferences (Cambridge Economic Policy Associates 2005: p.34-35). See Table 6.9 for identified sub-issues and case study examples.
Table 6.9 Sub-issues Arising From Conflict Management.
Sub-issues | Generic case study findings |
- Resourcing - Values and beliefs | - Managing disputes can be costly and time consuming. They may manifest in delays or unfulfilled PPP objectives - Conflict can arise between the partners over information requests. Although the private partner is legally obligated to share operational data with their public partner at its request, it may not do so willingly - Disputes can arise due to misunderstandings between public and private partners (as well as from interpretation of contractual provisions) |