Construction programming generally involves the process of creating and maintaining detailed programmes for a project, including sequencing of activities, calculation of durations, allocation of resources and the identification of any potential risks and opportunities. A construction programming expert witness requires the necessary education, experience, and specialised knowledge in construction programming as a minimum, as well as relevant experience in the type of project and/or type of issue(s) in dispute.
Typical Situations When an Expert Witnesses is Used
A construction programming expert witness may be called upon to provide written evidence and oral testimony in matters involving disputes over construction programmes, project delays, project acceleration, disruption to works, and other issues related to the construction planning and timing of construction projects.
Activities they Perform
After undertaking conflict of interest checks to ensure impartiality and independence, the activities performed by the expert will be governed primarily by legal instruction regarding any one or combination of the Typical Situations noted above, which often involves Delay.
In relation to matters involving Delay to construction projects, a construction programming expert witness would select delay analysis method(s) as mandated by the contract, instructed by legal representation, or based on the expert programmer’s opinion.
The application of the delay analysis method(s) involves a critical examination of all relevant project documents and analysis of any available contemporaneous and as-built programmes. Depending on the delay analysis method adopted and accuracy of programmes already in existence, there may be a need for re-creation of programmes from contemporaneous records to assist the analyst to identify cause and effect and the quantum of delay caused by discrete events.
Value of an Expert Witness
Engaging a programming expert early provides factual, objective, and reasoned opinions. It can also help the parties identify and resolve the real issues in dispute justly, quickly and without excessive cost.
Should you wish to discuss the value of a construction programming expert witness, please get in touch with Zancon.