How Digital Projects are Changing Contracts

This chapter explores the impact of digital practice on contracts and vice versa. It highlights three main aspects: the interaction between digital technology and contract structures, the transformation of contracts and the alignment of information management with project delivery principles. The primary aim is to enhance project delivery by re-evaluating contractual mechanisms. It is revealed that digitalisation does not alter the core function of contracts but rather modifies their provisions to accommodate digital workflows. This includes reconsidering ownership of data, liabilities, rights, roles and responsibilities. Current standardised contracts are adapting through specific protocols to address these changes. The integration of project teams helps to distribute liabilities and responsibilities, promote shared risks and rewards and open book accounting. However, while new forms of contracts are emerging, significant socio-technical and cultural barriers are still evident. Considerable work remains to be done, calling for broader solutions to unlock the full potential of collaborative contracts.