Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book aims to provide an adequate level of knowledge readily available to all architects. It is intended to make NEC4 accessible to many and at many levels, including those who have already built up a knowledge base with NEC3. The book focuses on the particular needs of the building sector within the construction industry and consequently sets the NEC4 scene in the context of an architect’s perspective and professional responsibilities. The NEC has evolved from a ‘revolutionary’ new form of contract to become a mainstream standard form contract which is particularly conducive to collaborative working and contractual partnering. Use of the NEC is increasingly driven by client bodies and while architects in some specialist building sectors, for example, healthcare and transport, are relatively conversant with the NEC, other architects have limited awareness of it.