Strategic Partnering within the UK Construction Industry - Dissertation Example

The concept of partnering, according to Broome (2002) was first generalized as being developed in the construction industry in Japan in the 1980's, and with that the application of total quality management and lean manufacturing concepts, where taken from manufacturing industries there. Furthermore Broome (2002) states, “The motivation for partnering and its popularization came from the USA”. Winch (2002) says that partnering in the UK came about due to the failure of traditional procurement methods ability to meet with client demands and with that the achievement of project objectives.

Sir Michael Latham's report, (Constructing the Team, 1994) commissioned by the government and industry, recognized the need for a solution to the on-going problems within the construction industry. It explained the aspects of partnering and suggested that it would bring significant benefits to all parties. As partnering is not specific to the construction industry, there are many definitions. According to Telford (2002), partnering has been explained as: “A relationship between purchasers and providers of goods and services throughout the supply chain.

The relationship is designed to achieve specific business objectives by maximizing the effectiveness of each participant’s resource. The relationship is based on mutual objectives, an agreed method of problem resolution and an active search for continuous measurable improvements.”