ABSTRACT
Now that some of the basics of how project participants interact have been addressed it is appropriate to consider how we communicate with others in a project environment. Communication is a familiar and essential characteristic of human societies, underpinning our personal and business relationships. Communication is also of vital importance to everyone involved in, and influenced by, AEC projects. To interact in a project environment it is necessary to communicate with individuals representing a variety of organisations and interests. It is the dynamic interaction of people within temporary project organisations that constitutes a process of communication. Participants need to collaborate, share, collate and integrate significant amounts of information and knowledge to realise project objectives. To do this well requires a combination of good management, committed people, supporting ICT networks, interactive media and the opportunity to communicate effectively with other participants. It is of little use being knowledgeable about a particular profession or trade if we are unable to articulate and communicate our ideas to others. Key management competences of leadership and decision making are founded on competent communication skills. Indeed, without timely, accurate and meaningful communication the TPO cannot succeed in realising its objectives.
