Best practice advice: briefing is critical and continuous

Don't rely on handing over a written document, say the experts at the Construction Best Practice Programme. Instead, briefing should be viewed as a process of exploring, developing and communicating requirements that begins with project inception and continues right through to completion.

Critical decisions are made throughout design and construction, and the client must be involved at every stage.

Unfortunately, there is no best practice model. This is because, says CBPP, so much depends on the specific characteristics of the project and the participants. However, a number of process elements have been identified where greater efforts are likely to lead to better briefing and better buildings. These include:

• empowering the client
• managing project dynamics
• team building
• appropriate user involvement, and
• appropriate visualisation techniques.

CBPP is running a series of key performance indicator workshops around the country designed to assist companies in developing policies and measuring improvements. More information is available on their website: www.cbpp.org.uk

Elliott Chase