Friday, November 10, 2023

NEC - 'Early Warning Notices' Made Simple

Introduced in 1993, the New Engineering Contract (NEC) brought a significant transformation to the construction and infrastructure industry, aiming to streamline contractual processes for improved project management. Emphasising plain language and integrated mechanisms, the NEC was designed to enhance project practices and success. Resource

A key feature within the NEC framework is the Early Warning Notice (EWN) procedure. This mechanism enables seamless communication between parties regarding risk management, fostering a proactive approach to addressing potential issues before they escalate, rather than a reactive approach that could potentially delay project outcomes. Resource

However, as projects grow in complexity, particularly in large-scale infrastructure ventures worth billions, the administrative load associated with issuing a multitude of notices for various risk issues can become burdensome. Furthermore, failure to correctly utilise EWNs may result in contractual penalties, shifting the intended risk management focus towards a more defensive, commercially protective stance. Resource

This administrative weight can obstruct the collaborative spirit that EWNs aim to foster among parties involved in the contractual process. To address these challenges, iterations like NEC3 and NEC4 have been developed to guide and simplify processes across different project levels and their complexities. Resource

NECs aim to streamline the EWN structure, alleviating administrative burdens and standardising procedures. These templates help in navigating and simplifying the EWN process, making it more accessible and efficient.

UniPhi - Version 19 offers pre-built templates that can be further customised to align with NEC and EWN guidelines. For those familiar with the challenges of submitting EWNs, UniPhi's latest release provides a valuable tool. As we approach Project Control Expos (PCEs) in the UK and Australia, understanding the significance UniPhi can bring to project management teams within the context of NEC contracts is vital. Our aim is to provide tailored solutions and resources that meet the diverse needs of projects in construction and infrastructure.

We invite you to engage with us to discuss your project management challenges and requirements. UniPhi's capabilities in supporting NEC-based projects are tailored to offer effective solutions. Visit our stand to discover more about how UniPhi can be the solution you're seeking for efficient project controls and management using NECs.

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