Partnering is a collaborative tool for effectively managing major construction projects. Partnering is based on key principles of alignment, high-performance teams, and conflict resolution and is a practical approach to ensure that working relationships are sound and productive.

While partnering is not a contract requirement, most projects will benefit from some level of partnering. WSDOT and the AGC recommend that the following approach is used on all projects:

• Include partnering in the pre-construction meeting
• Develop a partnering plan and approach
• Document your plan and approach
• Meet regularly to track progress

Partnering Field Guide (doc 330 kb)   (pdf 120 kb)
Provides additional information for determining the type of partnering approach to use on each project and how to manage the partnering effort. The Partnering Field Guide is a tool for both project office and contractor staff. Example forms and exercises are included in the Guidebook.