ABSTRACT

Once a thorough understanding of the project context has been established and discussed with the client it is then possible to consider the assembly of the TPO. This involves assembling the most appropriate organisations and individuals to realise the project. These may not necessarily be the most famous or best organisations (as considered by their peers), but those most suited to the specific project context. Consideration should be given to compatibility of the project values and the values of the potential contributors. It should not come as any surprise to state that this is an important task that will influence the performance, profitability and outcome of the project. Get it right, and few people will notice, but get it wrong and everyone (with the benefit of hindsight) will be quick to point out the incompatibilities and the problems created. What may come as a surprise to some readers is the reality that this aspect of projects is not always given the attention it deserves. Too often clients are in a hurry to start the project and the TPO is assembled more by circumstance than by design. This may not necessarily be unique to the AEC sector, but it appears to be a strong characteristic of AEC projects and an issue that many professionals are concerned about. As highlighted in the previous chapter, in an ideal world the assembly of the TPO should be started before the project briefing stage commences, although this is not always possible.