Chapter 3: Function of Planning and the Programme

Programmes are used to achieve several objectives in the context of a construction project. As outlined in the introduction the NEC family of contracts place a great focus on the management of the project. In this chapter we will review how programmes are used to achieve a range of differing objectives in construction and how other standard forms of contract and the engineering construction contract compare in broad terms in delivering those objectives. The word programme is used in many contexts and for many purposes. However, we are concerned with the programme as defined in a contract and here we consider how the programme which the NEC4 ECC requires compares with the other forms of contracts.