Need tips for managing conflicts in construction projects?

1 Identify the source and type of conflict

The first step to resolving conflict is to understand what is causing it and what kind of conflict it is. There are two main types of conflict in construction projects: technical and relational. Technical conflict involves disagreements over technical aspects of the project, such as specifications, methods, materials, or standards. Relational conflict involves interpersonal issues, such as communication, trust, respect, or emotions. Technical conflict can often be solved by referring to the contract, the design documents, or the best practices. Relational conflict, on the other hand, requires more attention to the feelings, needs, and perspectives of the parties involved.

2 Choose an appropriate conflict resolution style

Depending on the situation and the relationship between the parties, you can adopt different styles of conflict resolution. The five common styles are: avoiding, accommodating, competing, compromising, and collaborating. Avoiding means ignoring or avoiding the conflict, hoping it will go away. Accommodating means giving in to the other party's demands, sacrificing your own interests. Competing means asserting your position and trying to win the conflict, regardless of the other party's interests. Compromising means finding a middle ground that partially satisfies both parties, but may also entail some losses. Collaborating means working together to find a mutually beneficial solution that fully satisfies both parties, but may also require more time and effort. Each style has its pros and cons, and you should choose the one that best suits the context and the desired outcome.

3 Communicate effectively and respectfully

Communication is key to managing conflict in construction projects. You should communicate clearly, honestly, and respectfully with the other party, avoiding ambiguity, blame, or aggression. You should also listen actively and empathetically to the other party's views, concerns, and emotions, acknowledging their validity and value. You should use assertive language that expresses your needs and preferences without infringing on the other party's rights or dignity. You should also use constructive feedback that focuses on the behavior and the impact, not on the person or the intention. You should avoid personal attacks, insults, or threats that can escalate the conflict or damage the relationship.

4 Seek help from a third party if needed

Sometimes, you may not be able to resolve the conflict by yourself or with the other party. In that case, you may need to seek help from a third party who can facilitate the resolution process. The third party can be someone from within the project team, such as a project manager, a supervisor, or a mediator. Alternatively, it can be someone from outside the project team, such as a consultant, an arbitrator, or a judge. The third party can help by providing an objective and neutral perspective, clarifying the issues and interests, generating and evaluating options, and encouraging dialogue and cooperation. However, you should also be aware of the potential costs, risks, and limitations of involving a third party, such as losing control, confidentiality, or goodwill.

5 Learn from the conflict and prevent future ones

Finally, you should treat conflict as an opportunity to learn and improve, rather than as a problem to avoid or blame. You should reflect on the causes, the outcomes, and the lessons of the conflict, and identify what you can do better or differently in the future. You should also share your insights and feedback with the other party and the project team, and establish or revise the norms, rules, and procedures that can prevent or minimize future conflicts. You should also maintain or restore a positive and respectful relationship with the other party, and celebrate or appreciate the achievements and contributions of the project team.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?