Summary of Experience Q&A Flashcards
What constitutes a change, specifically looking at the 3MW Data Centre Project (Transfered)
A change is an alteration to the scope of works that was not included in the original contract. The change management process is set out in the contract and is the process of using a variation. Elements of the process including the use of the change control log are bespoke and based off senior projects managers on this projects previous experience working with the client. The change control log easily sets out all changes and actions associated with each change allowing the client to easily track any outstanding proposed changes before they are formally instructed under the contract as a variation.
Describe the change management process on the Data Centre project. (Transfered)
The first step is to propose the change, anyone in the project team can identify a change. This person must then provide a proposal for the change which describes the change and how it will benefit the project. The person identifying the change would complete part 1 of the change request form.
The next step is to understand the impact of the change. For this project the relevant party would provide me with the costs for the proposed change, usually this is the contractor providing as assessment of the change. As the project manager I would assess the time impact the change is expecting to have on the project.
Once the initial impact assessment has been completed the QS would validate the costs proposed and ensure these are best value for money for the client.
Once I am happy the form is complete with all relevant information,the change must be approved by the client through a formal email.
Once the client provides formal email approval the change will be recorded as approved in the change log tracker and inform the QS.
The QS will then provide a formal contract instruction to formally complete the change and allow the contractor to implement the change.
What is a project brief? (Transfered)
The project brief formally defines the client’s requirements and objectives providing sufficient detail to enable the proposed project to be designed and specified.
A good brief will provide clarity for the whole project team and creates a sound foundation for the successful delivery of the project.
What information is typically included in a project brief? (Transfered)
Client and Project Background (client brand/ culture, organisational structure, likely stakeholders)
Project Requirements (need for the project, phasing requirements, policies to be observed such as sustainability, client sign off procedures, etc.)
Financial (budget, funding)
Site Information (plot location, existing surveys, access to site)
Spacial & technical requirements (project end users, safety and security requirements, project performance targets)
What is a non-conformance report?
A formal document used to identify, record and address instances where materials, processes or work don’t meet the specified requirements or standards. This helps to maintain quality control on a project ensuring it complies with contractual, regulatory or industry standards.
How are risks evaluated?
Each risk is evaluated based on likelihood and impact both of these are given a score which when multiplied together will then form an overall risk score, helping to prioritise risks.
Difference between Project Brief and a PEP
A project brief describes what the project is including including client requirements and objectives, this is theoretical. Whereas a PEP is a governing document that describes how the project will be executed, it can be described as a methodology for delivering the project, this is the actual delivery.
Describe the RICS Guidance note on risk
Management of Risk, 1st Edition
The guidance covers:
- The definition of risk and issues
-Types of risk
- Response/ mitigation strategies
- Procurement routes and risk
- Risk quantification techinques
- Effect of risk on programme and cost
- Risk identification techniques
- Qualitative risk assessment and management
- Risk ownership v procurement route
- Contributing data for quantification
- Advising on appropriate procurement route
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What is the definition of risk?
A risk can be defined as an uncertain event orcircumstance that, if it occurs, will affect the outcome of a programme/project (note that where this guidance note refers to a project it could also refer to a programme). Risk management is now widely recognised as being concerned with both threat and opportunity. For the purposes of this guidance note, ‘risk’ refers to both positive and negative uncertainties.
What are the types of risk?
Risk avoidance: Where risks have such serious consequences on the project outcome that they are totally unacceptable. Risk avoidance measures might include a review of the employer’s brief and a reappraisal of the project, perhaps leading to an alternative design solution that eliminates the risk or even project cancellation.
Risk reduction: Where the level of risk is unacceptable and actions are taken to reduce either the chance of the risk occurring or the impact of the risk should it occur. Typical actions to reduce the risk can include: further site investigation to improve information, using different materials/suppliers to avoid long lead times or using different construction methods.
Risk transfer to the contractor: Risks that may impact the building programme are transferred to another party able to control it more effectively, usually involving a premium to be paid. If the risk materialises, the impacts are carried by the other party.
Risk sharing by both employer and contractor: This is when a risk is not wholly transferred to one party and some elements of the risk are retained by the employer. In accordance with NRM, the approach for dealing with risks that are apportioned between the client and the employer will normally be dealt with using provisional quantities, with the pricing risk being delegated by the contractor and the quantification risk being allocated to the employer.
Risk retention by the employer: In the event where risks are to be retained by the employer, the appropriate risk allowance identified in the cost plan will be reserved and managed by the employer.
What is a critical path?
It is the longest sequence of activities that must be completed to successfully conclude a project. They are known as critical activities because if they are delayed the whole project is delayed.
What is float?
It is the amount of time an activity can be delayed without delaying the subsequent activity or critical path.
What are the different types of float?
Total, Free and Terminal
What is total float?
Total Float refers to the amount of time that a task can be delayed without affecting the completion date of the project. It is the difference between the estimated duration of the task and the latest possible start date.
What is free float?
Free float represents the amount of time an activity can be delayed without affecting the project’s duration or the start of any dependent activity. It provides flexibility in scheduling non-critical activities, allowing for efficient resource utilization and minimizing project delays.
What is terminal float?
This is the time between a project’s planned completion date and its contractually set completion date. This float is owned by the contractor, often used more in NEC contracts
What is positive and negative float?
Positive float indicates than an activity can be delayed without delaying the project completion date, positive float can be built in to a programme as a safety margin for unpredictable delays. Negative float indicates a task is behind schedule and it needs to be accelerated, this is a red flag for any project mangement team.
What are the JCT SBC Payment Terms for the 3MW Data Centre Project?
The first interim valuation date (IVD) is one month after the Date of Possession and afterwards the same date in each month or the nearest Business Day in that month.
The due date is 7 days after the IVD.
The Contractor’s interim application for payment must not be issued less than 7 days before the due date
Then 5 days after the due date the interim certificate must be issued
The final date for payment is 14 days after the due date.
Should a pay less notice be issued this must be done before 5 days before the final date for payment.
If no interim certificate has been issued the contractor can issue an interim payment notice at any time after the 5-day expiry. The final date for payment is extended by the same number of days as the delay between the due date and the interim payment notice being issued.
How do IEC’s work to cool the Data Centre?
Indirect Evaporative Cooling, this ensures the technical hall remains cooled utilising the natural air to provide cooling. The air-to-air heat exchanger uses external cold air and water spray evaporation to dissipate heat from a data hall. The unit uses outside air to cool the data hall avoiding the mixing of hot and cold air. The chilled air is taken from outside then forced through a heat exchanger and immediately exhausted. Internal air is drawn from the data hall and circulated through the other side of the heat exchanger. The unit circulates large volues of air across a heat exchanger to maintain the required temperature in the data hall. All servers will be kept within hot aisle containment which will push all the hot air in to the ceilling void which will be taken out to the IEC units.
Are there alternatives to IEC’s to cool a data centre?
Liquid/ immersion cooling
What was the procurement strategy for RCC?
D&B, 2 stage restricted through a framework, NEC4 Option A Fixed Price
Why did STFC use this procurement method?
STFC are a government funded organisation so must follow public sector procurement process. All public sector procurement is subject to a legal framework, which is designed to encourage free and open competition and value for money. The main focus for public sector procurement is to ensure value for money due to the nature of where the money has come from.
STFC are a very risk adverse client so used design and build procurement to transfer the design risk over to the contractor, but they still maintained control of elements of design that were most important to them.
In terms of the tendering method a framework must be used and this was done on a 2 stage basis. A restricted tender was the recommended approach to limit the number of contractors as this project was a data centre so only certain contractors could be used and it was difficult to find the appropriate framework to use. 2 Stage was used to be more attractive to the market due to the nature of the project.
How does change work under JCT SBC?
Under JCT (Joint Contracts Tribunal) standard building contracts, changes typically occur through a process known as variations. Variations are adjustments or modifications to the original terms of the contract, such as design alterations, scope changes, or additions to the works.
Here is an overview of how changes work under JCT standard building contracts:
Instruction: The architect, contract administrator, or employer issues an instruction detailing the proposed change.
Quotation: Upon receiving the instruction, the contractor provides a quotation for the cost and time implications of the proposed variation.
Valuation: The contract administrator assesses the quotation and determines the valuation of the variation.
Agreement: Both parties (employer and contractor) need to agree on the valuation before the variation works commence.
Documentation: Any agreed variations should be documented and formalized through a formal instruction process to avoid disputes later on.
Adjustment: The contract sum and completion date may be adjusted to reflect the effects of the variation.
It’s important to follow the specific procedures outlined in the JCT contract regarding variations to ensure that changes are managed effectively and fairly for all parties involved.
What is BREEAM?
Building Research Establishment, Environmental Assessment Method
This is an international scheme providing independant third-party certification of the assessment of the sustainability performance of individual buildings and infrastructure projects. The assessment and certification will take place at several stages during the building lifecycle from design, construction through to operation.
What are the BREEAM rating thresholds?
Outstanding 85%
Excellent 70%
Very Good 55%
Good 45%
Pass 30%
Unclassified less than 30%
What are the BREEAM headline assessment categories?
Management
Health & Welbeing
Energy
Transport
Water
Materials
Waste
Land use and ecology
Pollution
Innovation
Why did the Data Centre Project aim for BREEAM Excellent
To meet one of the key project drivers to be similar to the other facility.
Also to comply with the clients wider sustainability requirements.
What are the key advantages of BREEAM certification?
Compliance can lower environmental impact
Demonstrates the level of achievement
Improves the internal environment for building users (can increase productivity)
Can reduce operating costs
Improves the marketability for the client or developer should they wish to sell or rent the building
Are they any alternatives to BREEAM?
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) - A Green building certification scheme
SKA - Rating in an environmental assessment tool for sustainable fitouts
CEEQUAL - Civil Engineering, infrastructure and landscaping
What are the STFC sustainability standards?
- To reduce energy consumption through good design, especially a fabric first approach and the selection of efficient plant and equipment
- Installing low carbon heating and ventillation options
- Focus on control and benchmarking through BMS to deliver and record continual improvement
- Installation of renewable generation options
- Where suited, use of bespoke and innovative technologies
- Net Zero Operation Carbon Dioxide emissions
- Net Zero Embodied Carbon Dioxide with designs following PAS 2080 focusing on material reduction before selection of low carbon materials
- Sustainable water cycle by reducing the amount of mains water used in the operation of the building
- Good health and wellbeing of building occupants focusing on air quality, daylight, overheating, acoustic comfort
-Sustainable life cycle cost to ensure all decisions made during the project are based on improving operational performance
What were the options for the STFC service culvert?
Combined Services Ducted Option - this solution considers a ducted solution with cable pits at regular intervals. The ducts allow cables to be installed and replaced in the future without the need for excavations when compared to direct burried. All services will be within a single duct and will take up less space but provides a contained and organised way to manage multiple services.
Combined Services Full Culvert Option - this would be a continuous culvert solutions throughout the whole length. Access hatches to be installed at regular intervals. Likely to be pre-cast concrete installed in open trench excavation with all cables supported and restrained throughout the whole length. All services will be in a full sized culvert structure that will have full access inside for maintenance.
Combined Services Trench - This considers the installation of multiple pre-cast service trenches installed side by side with removable covers. This option will not be as deep and might require more maintenance over time as it is more exposed to the elements, but is a more cost effective solution.
What are the main differences between JCT and NEC contracts?
The Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT) and the New Engineering Contract (NEC) are two popular forms of contracts used in the construction industry. Here are some key differences between JCT and NEC contracts:
Standard Forms: JCT contracts are more traditional and commonly used in the UK construction industry. They provide a comprehensive set of standard forms that cover different types of construction projects. NEC contracts are more modern and collaborative, focusing on project management and risk allocation. NEC uses more simple language, eliminating the use of legal terms.
Risk Allocation: NEC contracts are known for their risk-sharing provisions and collaborative approach, with a strong focus on effective project management. JCT contracts, on the other hand, may have more traditional risk allocation methods that can result in disputes.
Payment Mechanism: NEC contracts often include a more detailed and transparent payment mechanism, with provisions for early warning notices and compensation events. JCT contracts may have simpler payment terms that are less flexible.
Dispute Resolution: NEC contracts typically promote early resolution of disputes through their dispute resolution mechanisms, such as adjudication and dispute avoidance board. JCT contracts may have more traditional dispute resolution processes that can be more time-consuming and costly.
Flexibility: NEC contracts are designed to be more flexible and adaptable to different project requirements, allowing for easier customization. JCT contracts may offer less flexibility in terms of contract administration and project management.
JCT splits up the elements of time and cost dealing with them at various stages after a change arises, whereas NEC deals with cost and time together.
JCT uses variations and NEC uses compensation events. NEC requires the use of early warning notices to ensure any matters that could affect time, cost or quality have been identified.
Under NEC the programme is a contract document. If no programme has been submitted in the contract data one quarter for the price of the for the work done to date is retained in assessments, until the contractor has submitted a first programme for acceptance.
Overall, the choice between JCT and NEC contracts often depends on the specific requirements of the project and the preferred approach to risk allocation, project management, and dispute resolution. Each contract has its strengths and weaknesses, and contractors should carefully consider which contract best suits their needs.
What is a CDP?
Contractors Design Portion, which is associated with JCT contracts. This is an agreement for the contractor to design specific parts of the works. This is different to a design and build contract where the contractor is appointed to design the whole of the works. Often this is done when there is a specialist work package where contractors can apply practical knowledge to the design.
What other methods are there for tracking project progress apart from a programme?
Earned Value Management (EVM): EVM is a technique that integrates project scope, schedule, and cost to assess project performance and progress. It compares the planned value (budgeted cost for work scheduled), actual cost, and earned value (budgeted cost for work performed) to determine if a project is on track.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): KPIs are quantifiable metrics used to evaluate the success of a project in meeting its objectives. By tracking KPIs related to schedule performance, cost control, quality, safety, and other key areas, project managers can monitor progress and identify areas for improvement.
Milestone Tracking: Projects are often divided into key milestones, significant points in the project timeline that represent important achievements or deliverables. By tracking milestone completion, project teams can gauge progress and identify any delays or issues early on.
Daily Reports: Daily reports provide a detailed account of work completed, challenges faced, resources used, and any other relevant information on a daily basis. These reports help project teams stay informed about progress, issues, and achievements in real time.
Weekly/Monthly Progress Meetings: Regular progress meetings allow project stakeholders to discuss project status, updates, challenges, and upcoming milestones. These meetings facilitate communication, collaboration, and problem-solving to ensure project progress aligns with the overall objectives.
Visual Management Tools: Tools such as Kanban boards, Gantt charts, and dashboards provide visual representations of project status, tasks, and deadlines. These visual aids help teams quickly assess progress, identify bottlenecks, and prioritize work effectively.
What stakeholder management models exist?
Iceberg model - This uses the metaphor of an icebery to show how surface level events we react to are underpinned by less visable patterns, structures and beliefs. For stakeholder management it shows that there are a wider range of stakeholders rather than just the ones you see on the surface as there are other stakeholders below the surface that still need to be considered.
How do you map out stakeholders?
Often done through the power/ interest grid by understanding each stakeholders level of interest and influence. The stakeholders with the most interest and influence should be managed closely, those with high interest and low influence should be kept informed, those with high influence and low interest need to have their needs met and those with low intereste and low influence need to be kept into account. This model suggests that depending on where a stakeholder is positioned you might have to engage with them more or less frequently.
What are the key theories for managing projects, people and teams? (Transfered)
People Management Theories:
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs: This theory suggests that individuals have different levels of needs (physiological, safety, love/belonging, esteem, self-actualization), which can influence their motivation and behavior in the workplace.
Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory: Herzberg proposed that there are factors (motivators) that contribute to job satisfaction and other factors (hygiene factors) that prevent dissatisfaction. By addressing both sets of factors, managers can create a motivating work environment.
Team Management Theories:
Tuckman’s Stages of Group Development: Forming, storming, norming, performing, and adjourning are the stages that teams typically go through as they form and develop. Understanding these stages helps in managing team dynamics effectively.
Belbin’s Team Role Theory: Belbin identified nine team roles, such as coordinator, shaper, implementer, and completer-finisher, which individuals naturally adopt within a team. Building diverse teams with complementary roles can enhance team performance.
What is covered in a stakeholder management plan?
This document outlines strategies and goals for managing and engaging wih stakeholders. It needs to:
Identify all stakeholders including their roles and interests in the project.
Analyse the stakeholders including what is their level of influence, concerns and interests as well as any potential risks or opportunities related to their involvement.
Map stakeholders to understand their influence and the relationships between them.
Prioritise stakeholders with a focus on those who are more important to the projects sucess
Plan engagement with the stakeholders, including the communication channels and methods to use as well as tools and resources that will be needed.
Learn communication preferences to find out each stakeholders preferred method of communication
Keep stakeholders involved by being able to communicate key messages and changes to stakeholders before they ask
Create an action plan which will outline how to manage stakeholder involvement and what steps will be taken to ensure expectations are met.
What is the definition of sustainability?
Sustainability in construction is the practice of designing, building and operating buildings and infrastructure in a way that minmises environmental impact and maximises social and economic benefits.
Which building regulations apply to sustainability?
Approved Document Part L - Conservation of Fuel and Power
What legislation is there around sustainability?
- Paris Agreement
- COP 26
- Sustainable Development Goals
- Climate Change Act 2008: Sets legally binding carbon reduction targets, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80% by 2050 compared to 1990 levels.
5.The Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) Regulations 2012: Requires buildings to meet energy performance standards and undergo energy assessments, promoting energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.
- Renewable Energy Directive: The UK has committed to generating 15% of its energy from renewable sources by 2020 as part of the EU-wide directive, promoting the use of clean and sustainable energy sources.
- The Green Deal: A government initiative aimed at improving the energy efficiency of buildings through loans and financial incentives to encourage energy-saving measures.
- Environment Act 1995: Sets out the framework for environmental protection and conservation, including waste management, pollution prevention, and biodiversity conservation.
- The Waste Regulations 2011: The regulations aim to reduce waste, increase recycling, and promote sustainable waste management practices.
- Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme (CRC): A mandatory carbon emissions trading scheme for large organizations in the public and private sectors, promoting energy efficiency and carbon reduction.
What is the Paris Agreement?
This sets out a global framwork to avoid dangerous climate change by limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees C and pursuing efforts to limit it to 1.5 degrees C.
Under the Paris Agreement, each country must determine, plan and regularly report on the contribution that it undertakes to mitigate climate change.
What are the sustainable development goals?
There are 17 sustainable development goals which aim to transform our world. They are a call to action to end poverty and inequality, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy health, justice and prosperity.
List out the Sustainable Development Goals
- No Poverty
- Zero Hunger
- Good Health and Well-being
- Quality Education
- Gender Equality
- Clean Water and Sanitation
- Affordable and clean energy
- Decent work and Economic growth
- Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- Redcued Inequalities
- Sustainable cities and communities
- Responsible consumption and production
- Climate Action
- Life below water
- Life on land
- Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
- Partnerships for the goals
What is the Building Safety Act 2022?
This was introduced to reform building safety legislation in direct response to the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017. It applies to all buildings and specifically those that are over 18 meters high or 7 storeys and contain at least 2 residential units. It applies to building owners/ managers and the built environment industry.
It focuses on the following key areas:
- The safety and standards of all buildings.
- Assuring the safety of higher-risk buildings during construction and occupation.
- Improving the competence of the people responsible for overseeing, managing, and delivering works to higher-risk buildings.
- Ensuring clearer standards and guidance.
- Putting residents at the heart of a new system of building safety.
What is the Construction Act?
Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996
Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009
What is the importance of the second Construction Act?
Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009
This is an amendment to the Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996. It changed the way construction contracts are entered into and introduced a new regime for payment and adjudication.
In terms of adjudication it removed the need to have contracts in writing which enables parties to go in to adjudication even if the contract has not been formalised in writing.
In terms of payment it ensures that any clause that states the due date for payment depends on the giving of a payment notice by the payer is ineffective. It removes the use of pay when certified clauses, so payment mechanisms can’t be linked to the performance of obligations under a subcontract, this change was to help create a more reliable cash flow for all parties. The system regarding payment notices was changed and for a payment notice to be valid it must specify the sums considered to be due on or before the due date for payment and it will set out the basis on which that sum is calculated with a payment notice required to be gievn not later than 5 days after the due date. The use of default payment notices if a payer does not give a valid payment notice, the default notice must state the sum the payee considers to be due and the basis on which the sum has been calculated. Withholidng notices have been replaced by pay less notices this must be issued no later than the prescribed period set out in the contract but if not set out in the contract this will be 7 days.
It also made changes to suspension of the works where the suspending parties rights have been enhanced.
What is the importance of the first Construction Act?
Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996
This intends to ensure that payments are made promtly througout the supply chain and disputes are resolved swifty. Provisions of the act include:
- The right to be paid in interim, periodic or stage payments.
- The right to be informed of the amount due, or any amounts to be withheld.
- The right to suspend performance for non-payment.
- The right to adjudication.
- Disallowing pay when paid clauses.
What is novation in D&B procurement?
Novation is a process that transfers design consultants who are intially contracted to the employer/client to the contractor. It is a mutual agreemnt that replaces an old obligation with a new one.
In general novation is when the contractual rights and obligations are transfereed from one party to another. Benefits and burdens under a contract can be transferred by assignment this must be done by a novation agreement.
Where are ammendments made in the JCT suite of contracts?
The JCT (Joint Contracts Tribunal) Schedule of Amendments is a document used to make changes or modifications to the standard JCT contract. Here are some key points about the JCT Schedule of Amendments:
- Purpose: The Schedule of Amendments is used to tailor the standard JCT contract to suit the specific requirements of a construction project. It allows parties to make changes to clauses, terms, or provisions in the contract to better reflect the intentions of the parties involved.
- Customization: The Schedule of Amendments can be used to add, delete, or modify clauses in the standard JCT contract to address specific project requirements, risks, or special conditions.
- Legal Framework: The Schedule of Amendments forms part of the overall contract documentation and should be read in conjunction with the standard JCT contract. It is legally binding and should be agreed upon by all parties involved in the contract.
- Clarity and Consistency: By using the Schedule of Amendments, parties can ensure that the contract accurately reflects their agreements and intentions, reducing the likelihood of disputes or misunderstandings during the project.
- Professional Advice: It is recommended to seek legal advice or consult with a construction contract expert when drafting or reviewing the Schedule of Amendments to ensure that the modifications are compliant with the law and in the best interest of all parties.
- Overall, the JCT Schedule of Amendments is a valuable tool for tailoring the standard JCT contract to meet the specific requirements of a construction project and to ensure that the contract reflects the intentions and agreements of all parties involved.
What is the difference between a relevant matter and a relevant event under the JCT?
A relevant matter is related to money and time but a relevant event is only related to extensions of time
- Relevant Matters:
Definition: It when the client is responsible for an event that materially affects the progress of the works. The contractor is able to claim loss and/or expense. This does not always result in a delay to the completion date.
Examples: Discrepancies in the contract documents, failure to give the contractor access to and from site, delays in receiving instructions, disruption caused by works being carried out by the client. - Relevant Events:
Definition: A relevant event is an event that causes a delay to the completion date. This is caused by either the client or a neutral event not caused by either party. The contract should set out what constitutes a relevant event. They entitle the contractor to claim an extension of time so the completion date can be moved and the project is still successful. This does not necessarily entitle the contractor to claim a loss and expense (a relevant matter must occur before loss and expense can be claimed).
Examples: Exceptionally adverse weather, failure to provide information, the supply of materials and good by the client, delay in giving the contractor possession of the site, force majeure.
What leadership style do I have and how can it adapt to each project? (Transfered)
Hersey Blanchard situational leadership theory suggest that leaders should adapt their leadership style to the situation and maturity level of the followers. It focuses on the willingness and ability of indidual employees.
What are the leadership models under Hershy-Blanchard theory? (Transfered)
This model suggests leaders must chaneg their behaviour according to the circumstances to adapt to suit the current environment, it is a situational leadership style. This model tends to suit one to one leadership rather than one to many leadership. This model suggets that successful leaders are those who can adapt their leadership style based on the readiness or maturity of their followers. The readiness of followers is determined by their level of comptence and their commitment to completing a task.
Leadership behaviour can be categorised in to four main styles:
1. Telling: Directing and closely supervising followers with low readiness.
2. Selling: Providing both direction and support for followers with some readiness.
3. Participating: Offering support and guidance while involving followers in decision-making for those with moderate readiness.
4. Delegating: Allowing followers with high readiness to take responsibility for tasks.
What are the insurance options covered under the contract particulars in JCT contracts (D&B)
- Option A: the Contractor is required to take out and maintain a Joint Names Policy for all risks insurance for the works;
- Option B: the Employer is required to take out and maintain a Joint Names Policy for all risks insurance for the works; or
- Option C: the Employer is required to take out and maintain (a) a Joint Names Policy in respect of the existing structures and their contents, and (b) a Joint Names Policy for all risks insurance for the works.
What insurance options are included in the 3MW Data Centre Project?
6.9.1 At the end of the clause insert: “The Contractor (at the Employer’s request from time to time) shall ensure, where Insurance Option A applies, and the Employer may arrange, where Insurance Option B or C applies, that the Joint Names Policy referred to in paragraph A.1, B.1, C.1 or C.2 of Schedule 3 shall provide for recognition of such additional persons as the Employer may reasonably require (including each Funder, Purchaser and Tenant) as an insured under the relevant Joint Names Policy”.
What are liquidated damages and are they required in the contract for the 3MW Data Centre?
Liquidated damages are a fixed sum of mony that a client/ employer can claim from a contractor if the contractor breaches the conract. They are often used to compensate for a contractor’s failure to meet a performance requirement to complete a project on time. They are roughly £150,000 per calendar week or pro-rate for part of a week on the 3MW Data Centre Project.
What theories of team performance are there? (Transfered)
Tuckman’s stages of development
Forming: Team members get to know each other and their roles
Storming: Conflict and friction can arise as people’s true characters start to emerge
Norming: People start to resolve their differences and appreciate one another’s strengths
Performing: The team is in flow and performing to its full potential
Mourning/ Adjourning: The team coming to an end
How is a steel frame assembled?
Steel frames are assembled on-site by lifting, positioning, and connecting steel components.
Steel frames are often assembled using a solid L-backed assembly table with trestles inside to support the steel framing components. The framing is then fixed together with specialist frame card screws.
Steel frame buildings are often used for commercial purposes because they are cost-effective, can be built quickly, and are more environmentally friendly than other construction methods.
How are concete floors formed?
Concrete floors are formed by pouring concrete into a prepared base and then finishing and curing the concrete:
1. Prepare the base
Clear the site, excavate, and compact a hardcore base. You can also add a layer of sand blinding and a damp-proof membrane.
2. Create the formwork
Build up a base and level the forms. For T-beam construction, lay hollow clay or concrete blocks end-to-end to create a continuous T-beam. For waffle slabs, use square-box molds to create a rectangular grid of intersecting beams.
3. Add reinforcement
For reinforced concrete, lay steel reinforcing bars or mesh in the formwork.
4. Pour the concrete
Start at one end and pour the concrete into the forms, spreading it evenly and filling all corners. Use a screed board to level the concrete as you pour.
5. Finish and cure
Let the concrete cure for at least three days. You can use a trowel to create a smooth, hard, and dense surface.
Concrete slabs are a key structural component of buildings, providing a flat surface that helps support the load.
Can you talk about conditional leadership, in relation to motivation of employees? (Transfered)
This idea uses rewards and punishment to motivate people and achieve goals, looking at a carrot and stick approach.
The name carrot and stick signifies the means by which authority is exercised and obedience is demanded.
For this to be effective leaders must set achievable goals including the criteria for success so employees understand where the rewards will come from. It is also important to establish the reward and determine the consequences for employees.
What is the Clerk of Works role under a JCT SBC?
The role of a Clerk of Works (CoW) under the Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT) is crucial in ensuring the quality and compliance of construction projects. Here are the key responsibilities:
Supervision and Inspection: The CoW is responsible for overseeing the construction and maintenance of buildings or other works. This includes ensuring that the work is carried out to the required standards and specifications12.
Quality Assurance: They ensure the proper use of labor and materials, making sure that the construction meets the specified quality standards12.
Record Keeping: The CoW keeps detailed records of the construction process, including daily logs of weather conditions, tests carried out, and any delays or issues encountered3.
Compliance: They ensure that the construction complies with all relevant building regulations and standards12.
Reporting: The CoW provides regular reports to the client, highlighting any issues or deviations from the project plan and suggesting corrective actions12.
Overall, the Clerk of Works plays a vital role in protecting the client’s interests by ensuring that the construction project is completed to a high standard, on time, and within budget.
When are loss and expense and time claims dealt with?
In JCT contracts the Conbtractor is required to notify the Architect/ Contract Administrator when it becomes reasonable apparent that the progress of the works is being or is likely to be delayed by the occurance of a relevant event and or matter. There is no time limitation on this unless this has been ammended in the contract.
However, the NEC requires the contractor to notify the project manager of the occurance or anticipted occurence of a compensation even within 8 weeks of the contractor bevoming aware of the occurance. Failure to do so might result in the contractor not being entitled to the claim.
What are the approved documents within Building Regulations
Part A: Structure
Part B: Fire Safety
Part C: Contamination and moisture
Part D: Toxic substances
Part E: Passage of sound
Part F: Ventilation
Part G: Sanitation and water
Part H: Drainage and waste disposal
Part J: Combustion appliances and fuel storage systems
Part K: Falling, collision and impact
Part L: Conservation of fuel and power
Part M: Access and use of buildings
Part O: Overheating
Part P: Electrical safety
Part Q: Security
Part R: Electronic communications infrastructure
Part S: Infrastructure for the charging of electrical vehicles
Part T: Toilet accommodation
Regulation 7: Materials and workmanship
List out some basic sustainable technologies
Sensored lights, sensored taps, building management systems, air quality monitoring, use of electric cars, reducing travel, car sharing, recycling points, LED lighting
Solar panels, air source heat pumps, Wind turbines rainwater harvesting, sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS), green roofs, increased insulation, natural ventilation
What are the statuatory requirements/ obligations for construction?
Building Regulations
Planning Permission
Health and Safety at Work Act
CDM Regs
Environmental and Pollution
Noise
Traffic
Public Procurement
Housing Grants Construction and Regeneration Act
Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act
