ABSTRACT
This chapter begins by considering stakeholders and their attitudes to risk and complexity. It provides an overview of the construction industry and how procurement has changed in recent times. This is followed by an explanation of the key methods of procurement and a brief description of the different standard forms of contract. Procurement is often a strategic decision taken by key stakeholders before the design team has been appointed. People will also see that attitudes to risk may change according to the phase of the project. For example, every member of the team is involved in managing health and safety risks. Although the architect is the main point of contact for both the design and construction the responsibility for risks is divided: design risks rest with the design team, risks relating to the physical product the building itself rest with the contractor and his sub-contractors.
