Collaborative projects have become an increasingly preferred model for implementing construction projects where good and cost-effective solutions are jointly developed in a pre-project or optimization phase before the actual start of project implementation, and we at Seltor have completed several successful collaborative projects in recent years.

There are a number of models for implementing collaboration projects, depending on the type of project and the time available. However, there are several processes that are common and that we emphasize when entering into a collaboration contract.

To ensure an effective process in the interaction phase, there must be a shared understanding of the goal of this phase and how the methodology, organization and work process are interrelated among all parties involved. This, together with clarification of expectations with the client, an agreed decision plan and a progress plan that takes systematic completion into account from the outset, are important success factors for the success of the project. Expectations are clarified at the very start of the project and it is important to have a detailed introduction to the project and the client's requirements and wishes from those who are familiar with the vision and desired concept.

Building a joint team with mutual openness and trust is the first and most important prerequisite for successful project work. A project is realized by a number of different individuals, and we believe that people who know, understand and respect each other form the best basis for a well-executed project. We therefore work actively with team composition and team building so that project participants complement each other in terms of expertise, experience and personal qualities. At the same time, time must be set aside to ensure that everyone gets to know each other well and establishes respect and loyalty to the project and common goals.

We want to help establish an environment where professionalism and efficiency have high priority, and where communication is easy and open, characterized by good humour and well-being. Communication should be characterized by openness, trust and understanding of the motives, interests and wishes of other stakeholders.

Clarifications made in the feasibility study largely determine the rest of the project. It is important to identify and address both the risk and success factors already in this phase so that the project starts with a common platform and project understanding for all parties involved. This provides the best conditions for successful implementation. Overall, the most critical tools for achieving success in all phases of the project are collaboration and trust.

In a collaboration contract, we have greater responsibility for the solutions, drawing up the details of the requirements specification, a detailed progress plan and, finally, a binding target price than in a turnkey contract. To identify risks and opportunities, we often bring in external consultants to assess statics, fire regulations and acoustics well in advance of the start of construction. They verify that proposed solutions are realistic and feasible within legislation, budgets and time. While the project is under development in the interaction phase, Seltor obtains binding offers from a wide range of subcontractors to quality assure the cost level of the work.