A Structured Methodology for Handling Project Disputes

Technical Rigor with a Senior Executive Viewpoint.

When construction disputes arise, the traditional response often compounds the problem: work slows, documentation gaps widen, and positions harden.

Project Neutral® is fundamentally different — a seasoned executive and a structured methodology that addresses issues while maintaining project momentum.

The Project Neutral® early neutral evaluation combines sophisticated analytical tools with practical construction experience. This dual focus ensures our evaluations are both technically sound and practically implementable.

Most claims are resolved in 21 days.

The Project Neutral® Methodology provides an efficient framework to address construction disputes before they impact project momentum. Unlike traditional dispute resolution that often begins after project completion, and can take years, our 21-day process delivers:

  • Comprehensive document review and stakeholder interviews

  • Independent assessment of technical and contractual issues

  • Practical, implementable recommendations

  • Framework for ongoing resolution if needed

By addressing issues while evidence is readily available and stakeholder objectives remain aligned, the Project Neutral® process offers vast cost-savings over going to court years later.

Our Project Document review process uses a structured framework that:

  • Evaluates contractual relationships and obligations

  • Assesses technical compliance with specifications

  • Identifies critical path impacts through schedule analysis

  • Reviews change order processes and documentation

  • Analyzes cost impacts and financial implications

This framework is applied by professionals with decades of industry experience, ensuring technical analysis is grounded in practical understanding of construction operations.

A Project Neutral® will conduct confidential interviews with stakeholders across the whole team in order to:

  • Gather essential facts without escalating tensions

  • Identify areas of agreement that can serve as foundations for resolution

  • Understand technical perspectives from multiple viewpoints

  • Clarify documentation gaps or ambiguities

  • Explore potential solutions beyond positional arguments

Technical Analysis

The Project Neutral® team applies specialized expertise in:

  • Design and engineering documents

  • Critical path scheduling and delay analysis

  • Change order evaluation and pricing

  • Construction means and methods assessment

  • Mitigation steps and acceleration approaches

  • Risk allocation and management

Implementation Guidance

Beyond analysis, we provide practical guidance for implementation, including:

  • Structured negotiation frameworks

  • Exchange of documents appropriate for resolution

  • Process improvements to prevent recurrence

  • Improved communication guidance for stakeholders

  • Project recovery strategies where needed

The Cost of Delayed Resolution

Research by the Construction Industry Institute indicates that disputes addressed during construction typically cost 30 to 80 percent less to resolve than those addressed after project completion.

When considering that 98.8% of civil lawsuits filed in U.S. District Court ultimately settle through negotiation, the question becomes not whether to negotiate, but when.

Early, structured negotiation—before positions harden and costs accumulate—consistently delivers superior outcomes for all stakeholders.