Dispute Avoidance Boards
Proactive boards that identify and resolve emerging disputes before they escalate on major infrastructure projects.
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What are Dispute Avoidance Boards?
Dispute Avoidance Boards (DABs) are standing panels of independent, experienced practitioners appointed at the outset of a major infrastructure project to assist the parties in avoiding and resolving disputes throughout the project lifecycle.
Board members make regular visits to the project site, attend progress meetings, review project documents, and develop a thorough understanding of the project and the parties' positions. This enables them to identify potential disputes early and provide informal guidance before issues escalate.
When a dispute does arise, the board can issue recommendations or decisions (depending on the type of board) to assist the parties in resolving the matter quickly and without disrupting the project.
Benefits
- Proactive identification of potential disputes before they escalate
- Regular site visits and project reviews by experienced practitioners
- Informal recommendations to assist parties in resolving issues
- Formal recommendations when required under the contract
- Reduces the cost and disruption of formal dispute resolution
- Preserves commercial relationships and project momentum
Types of Boards
Board Structures
Dispute Review Board (DRB)
A DRB visits the project regularly and issues non-binding recommendations to assist parties in resolving disputes. Parties are not obliged to comply but the recommendations carry significant persuasive weight.
Dispute Adjudication Board (DAB)
A DAB issues binding decisions that must be complied with immediately (pay now, argue later). Decisions may be challenged through arbitration after project completion.
Combined Dispute Board (CDB)
A CDB combines the features of both DRB and DAB — issuing non-binding recommendations in the first instance, with the ability to issue binding decisions when required.
Set Up a Board for Your Project
Contact us to discuss how a Dispute Avoidance Board can protect your project from costly disputes.
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