Navigating NEC Projects: A Comedy of Mindset Errors

In episode 46 of The Subcontractors Blueprint podcast, Jacob Austin of QS.Zone explores the mindset shift required when transitioning from JCT to NEC projects. Reflecting on a past project that faced challenges due to the rigid NEC approach, Jacob emphasises the importance of understanding the differences between the two contract types. He highlights the necessity of treating the NEC program as a live document and fostering a collaborative environment. Jacob underscores the significance of open communication, good faith, and mutual trust in NEC contracts. He concludes by encouraging SME contractors to adopt a collaborative mindset and subscribe for further insights and support.   KEY TAKEAWAYS:  The need for a mindset shift when working on an NEC project compared to a JCT job.  Experiences from a large-scale government project, highlighting commercial relationship issues and lack of impartiality.  The NEC contract's focus on project management techniques, obligations expressed through the program, and the live document concept.  The contractual duty for all parties to deal fairly with each other, enforceable clauses, and the importance of trust and cooperation in communication.  Other episodes about NEC Contracts: Episode 4 - Mastering NEC4: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-subcontractors-blueprint/id1701638267?i=1000635658618 Episode 41 - Managing Change under NEC4: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-subcontractors-blueprint/id1701638267?i=1000654693851   BEST MOMENTS: "It was the commercial relationship that didn't really embody the spirit of the contract." "When it turns adversarial, the employer will have no hesitation in turning the timescales against you.” “Some people get a little bit angsty about being overly contractual and oh, I don't like to submit a notice. I don't like to submit an early warning because it's seen by the other party as being aggressive and contractual.” "Talk to your counterpart in the same way that you would talk to somebody else that you trust and have a frank and honest discussion."   Jacob is on a mission to help the 1 million SME contractors working within the construction industry. If you've taken something of value from this episode, please share the podcast with someone you know, and pass the value on. HOST BIO: Meet Jacob Austin, a Chartered Quantity Surveyor with a rich background at construction industry giants Balfour Beatty, Kier, and Vistry Group. With extensive involvement in education, health, and residential projects spanning various scales, from £1000s to £100M in concurrent developments, Jacob brings a unique perspective. Having collaborated with numerous small businesses, he's now committed to sharing his expertise to drive their success. Join Jacob on his podcast, where he blends his profound insights and personable approach to offer guidance, industry secrets, and inspirational stories. LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-austin/ Instagram - www.instagram.com/qs.zone/ www.qs.zone/all-links