Disputes vs conflicts
In the 1990 book Conflict: Resolution and Provention, John Wear Burton refers to a dispute as “a short-term disagreement that can result in the disputants reaching some sort of resolution; it involves issues that are negotiable.”
Construction disputes are generally consistent with Burton's definition. They tend to arise between two parties due to a disagreement over a specific issue or situation. Addressing the issue can include establishing responsibility for the contractual consequences associated with it and then coming up with a reasonable solution or settlement.
Burton notes that disputes differ from conflicts, which are “long-term, with deeply rooted issues that are seen as ‘non-negotiable’.” In Analysis of conflict and change in construction projects, Construction Management and Economics by P.D. Gardiner and J.E.L. Simmons, conflict is further defined as “any divergence of interest, objectives or priorities between individuals, groups or organisations, or non-conformance to requirements of a task, activity or process.”
Both of these definitions of conflict are consistent within the construction sector, where these issues can lead to the deterioration of relationships, a breakdown of trust, additional costs and ultimately to breaches of contract and claims for damages.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
ICE Trustee Board update June 2022
Given by ICE President Ed McCann.
Artificial intelligence and project management
Two new research reports published by APM.
Association for Project Management membership offer
50% off APM Associate membership for Designing Buildings users.
Building safety, a shifting landscape for professionals
A commentary from the insurance perspective.
In brief with further links.
Walter Segal: self-built architect
A definitive book on a pioneer of green architecture.
Funding for heritage on the high street
Using heritage as a catalyst for reviving historic centres.
Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting update.
Declaration prioritising sustainable urbanisation adopted.
A small hidden, often distant but key building component.
Some brief words about the actuator.
CIAT Chief Executive steps down.
After 34 years at the Institute.
Volunteer opportunity launched by the ICE
To support the next generation of engineers.
Provisional findings show illegal cartels in the industry.
CIAT reporting from the Competition and Markets Authority.
Making sustainable construction number one priority.
The future of construction report.
Interview with ECA CEO.
Many provisions came into force on June 28, 2022.
With room to expand.
An information packed session at the BSRIA conference.
Refurbishment, Energy Efficiency, Indoor air and process.
Considering building acoustics with the AT Journal.
Why building acoustic considerations must be non-negotiable.
Create a profile, write informed product articles and share.
Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) is one example.
Top 50 Women in engineering 2022.
Inventors and innovators at ICE.
Life, death and art at the Stuart court. Book review.
Real estate, place adaptation and innovation.
Review and comment on the revised draft before July 11.
We are indeed now 10 years old, so go on and be bold !
Write about something you know, help us build and grow !
IHBC's 25th anniversary 2022 Aberdeen School.
A blended event and triumphant return.
New Construction Leadership Council Co-Chair selected.
Mark Reynolds succeeds Andy Mitchell as Co-Chair of CLC