Balancing Act: Navigating Life and Work as an Expatriate Senior Contracts Specialist in Doha, Qatar

Compartmentalization, when working as a Senior Contracts Specialist in the Public Works Authority in Doha, Qatar, especially as an expatriate from Malaysia living with a spouse, involves several layers of professional and personal balance. Here are key strategies that could be beneficial:

Professional Compartmentalization

1. Understanding Cultural and Legal Differences: Familiarize yourself with the local laws, regulations, and customs in Qatar, particularly those related to public works and contracts. This knowledge will help you navigate your professional responsibilities more effectively.

2. Adapting to Work Culture: The work environment in Qatar may differ from what you're used to in Malaysia. Embrace local work practices, respect hierarchical structures, and adapt your communication style to fit in with your Qatari colleagues and stakeholders.

3. Maintaining Professionalism: Keep your work life and personal life separate. This includes managing time effectively so that work stress does not spill over into your home life. Establish clear boundaries and communicate these with your team and family.

4. Continuous Learning and Development: Stay updated on global and regional trends in contract management and public works. Engage in continuous learning through courses, seminars, or networking with professionals in your field. This can enhance your skills and value as a Senior Contracts Specialist.

5. Networking: Build a professional network within and outside your organization. This can provide support, insight, and opportunities for collaboration. Being an expatriate, it's also beneficial to connect with other expatriates who might be experiencing similar challenges.

Personal Compartmentalization

1. Work-Life Balance: Prioritize your time to ensure that you have quality moments with your spouse and for personal relaxation. Doha offers various cultural, recreational, and social opportunities that can enrich your expatriate experience.

2. Cultural Integration: Engage with the local community to understand and appreciate the culture of Qatar. Participating in local events, festivals, and traditions can make your stay more fulfilling.

3. Expatriate Support Groups: Join expatriate groups in Doha. These groups can offer advice, friendship, and support, making the transition smoother for both you and your wife.

4. Health and Wellbeing: Pay attention to your physical and mental health. The expatriate lifestyle can be challenging, so it's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, seek medical care when needed, and find stress-relief activities that work for you.

5. Family Communication: Keep open lines of communication with your spouse regarding both of your experiences, challenges, and feelings about living in Doha. Support each other in adjusting to the new environment.

Compartmentalization is about creating and maintaining healthy boundaries between different aspects of your life. By implementing these strategies, you can manage your professional responsibilities effectively while enjoying a fulfilling personal life in Doha, Qatar.

Optimal Strategies for Managing Prolongation Cost Claims in Construction: Insights for Clients

 Abstract:

In the realm of construction, delays often lead to complex prolongation cost claims, presenting significant challenges for clients. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of best practices for clients in managing these claims, emphasizing the importance of understanding contractual nuances, proactive risk management, and effective communication.

Introduction:

Construction projects are inherently susceptible to delays, resulting in additional costs, commonly known as prolongation costs. Clients, often finding themselves in the labyrinth of legal and contractual obligations, must navigate these challenges effectively. This paper aims to delineate strategic approaches for clients to manage and mitigate prolongation cost claims.

1. Contractual Comprehension and Its Implications:

A deep understanding of contract terms, especially those related to delays and prolongation claims, is paramount. Clients must be well-versed in the nuances of their contracts to discern responsibilities and rights in delay scenarios.

2. Proactive Risk Management Involvement:

Clients should actively engage in the risk assessment phase, collaborating with contractors to identify and mitigate potential delay risks. This involvement not only minimizes the likelihood of delays but also prepares both parties for efficient resolution if they occur.

3. The Significance of Timely Decision-Making:

Delay in decision-making is a frequent cause of project delays. Clients must ensure responsiveness and maintain transparent communication channels with contractors, thereby reducing the likelihood of delays attributable to client actions.

4. Rigorous Monitoring and Documentation Practices:

Regular project monitoring coupled with meticulous record-keeping is essential. Documenting project activities, decisions, and communications forms a vital repository for reference in case of future disputes or claims.

5. Objective Evaluation of Prolongation Claims:

An impartial assessment of prolongation claims is crucial. Clients should review contractor documentation against their records to validate the authenticity and appropriateness of claims.

6. Integration of Technological Tools:

Employment of project management software facilitates real-time project tracking and documentation, aiding in the accurate evaluation of delays and associated prolongation claims.

7. Expert Consultations:

Consulting with legal and construction experts provides clients with critical insights into the complexities of prolongation claims and aids in informed decision-making.

8. Cooperative Problem-Solving:

A collaborative approach with contractors in resolving delays fosters amicable solutions, preserving professional relationships and facilitating smoother project progression.

9. Adherence to Notification Clauses:

Clients must be vigilant about contractual notification clauses, as non-compliance can lead to unintended waivers of rights or acceptance of liabilities.

10. Learning from Experience:

Post-project analyses offer valuable learning opportunities. Reflecting on the management of delays and claims in completed projects can refine future contract management strategies.

Conclusion:

Effectively managing prolongation cost claims is vital for the success of construction projects from a client’s perspective. Adopting a proactive, well-informed, and collaborative approach is key to navigating these challenges. This paper underscores the importance of strategic engagement, thorough documentation, and leveraging expert advice, providing a roadmap for clients to efficiently handle prolongation cost claims in construction.

Keywords: Construction delays, prolongation cost claims, contract management, risk management, project documentation, client strategies.

Mastering Mindset: A Guide for Quantity Surveyors to Overcome Cognitive Distortions and Excel in Project Management

Quantity Surveyors play a critical role in managing the costs and finances of construction projects. In their professional environment, cognitive distortions can impact decision-making, project outcomes, and overall job satisfaction. Here's a comprehensive approach tailored to Quantity Surveyors:

1. Awareness and Education:

• Understand common cognitive distortions and how they may manifest in the context of Quantity Surveying.

• Educate yourself and your team about the impact of cognitive distortions on decision-making and project management.

2. Self-Reflection and Reality Testing:

• Regularly reflect on your thoughts and feelings related to project costs and financial management.

• Challenge negative thoughts by objectively evaluating the evidence supporting or refuting them, especially during the estimation and budgeting phases.

3. Mindfulness Techniques:

• Practice mindfulness to stay present during project assessments and financial planning.

• Use mindfulness techniques to observe thoughts without being overwhelmed, fostering a focused and clear mindset.

4. Set Realistic Expectations:

• Acknowledge the uncertainties inherent in construction projects, such as unexpected market fluctuations or unforeseen challenges.

• Set realistic and flexible expectations for project outcomes, incorporating contingency plans into budgeting.

5. Positive Affirmations and Continuous Learning:

• Counteract negative self-talk with positive affirmations, emphasizing your expertise and successful track record.

• Engage in continuous learning and professional development to stay updated on industry best practices and enhance your skills.

6. Collaboration and Communication:

• Foster open communication with project stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and team members.

• Seek feedback regularly to gain insights into perceptions of your performance, ensuring effective collaboration.

7. Constructive Problem-Solving and Flexibility:

• Approach challenges as opportunities for constructive problem-solving rather than catastrophizing.

• Embrace a mindset of flexibility and adaptability, recognizing that adjustments are a normal part of the construction industry.

8. Building a Support Network:

• Establish a support network of colleagues, mentors, and industry peers.

• Share experiences and concerns with trusted individuals who can provide guidance and perspective on managing project costs.

9. Monitoring and Challenging Automatic Thoughts:

• Pay attention to automatic negative thoughts as they arise, especially during project evaluation and reporting.

• Challenge these thoughts by seeking evidence and considering alternative, more balanced perspectives.

10. Emphasize Positive Project Aspects:

• Avoid filtering out positive aspects of a project while focusing on financial challenges.

• Maintain a balanced view that recognizes achievements alongside areas for improvement.

11. Proactive Professional Help:

• If cognitive distortions significantly impact your well-being and work performance, consider seeking guidance from a mental health professional or a career counselor.

By integrating these strategies into their professional practices, Quantity Surveyors can enhance their ability to manage project costs effectively, maintain a positive mindset, and contribute to successful construction project outcomes.

 

Navigating Digital Transformation: The Crucial Role of Contract and Cost Management Specialists

For successful digital and AI transformations, Contract and Cost Management Specialists play a pivotal role. These professionals, including Contracts Administrators, Contracts Specialists, Quantity Surveyors, Cost Engineers, and others in similar roles, must comprehend the challenges their organizations face and actively engage in rewiring processes for continuous innovation.

1. Understanding Business Challenges:

• Contract and Cost Management Specialists, with their expertise in contractual and financial aspects, need to grasp the specific challenges within their organizations. This understanding is crucial for the effective implementation of digital and AI solutions.

2. Alignment with Organizational Objectives:

• Ensuring that digital and AI initiatives align with broader organizational goals is a key responsibility of these specialists. They act as a bridge, ensuring that technological solutions are in harmony with strategic objectives and financial considerations.

3. Data-Driven Decision-Making:

• In the era of data-driven decision-making, these specialists must be familiar with the data landscape in their domains. This includes understanding the types of data available, its quality, and how it can be leveraged for improved decision-making.

4. Continuous Innovation Mindset:

• Embracing a mindset of continuous innovation is essential. Contract and Cost Management Specialists need to stay informed about technological advancements, discern their applicability to enhance processes, and remain open to change.

5. Integration of Technologies:

• Bridging the gap between technical aspects of digital and AI solutions and practical requirements in their domains is a key role. These specialists facilitate the seamless integration of new technologies into existing workflows.

6. Change Management Expertise:

• Managing the significant changes brought about by digital and AI transformations is part of their responsibility. Contract and Cost Management Specialists ensure a smooth transition and proper training for the workforce to adapt to new technologies.

7. Risk Management Proficiency:

• With expertise in managing risks associated with contracts, costs, and quantities, these specialists are instrumental in understanding and mitigating the risks and benefits of digital and AI solutions.

8. Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Collaboration across departments is vital for successful transformations. Contract and Cost Management Specialists act as liaisons between technical teams and other business units, fostering effective communication and collaboration.

In essence, the success of digital and AI transformations relies on the active involvement and collaborative efforts of Contract and Cost Management Specialists. Their unique blend of expertise in contractual and financial matters positions them as key drivers in aligning technology solutions with organizational needs and ensuring the seamless integration of innovation.

Q: What challenges do Contract and Cost Management Specialists commonly face when harnessing the potential of technology in their field?

A: The primary challenge for Contract and Cost Management Specialists often revolves around scaling technology implementation. While successful pilot projects and experiments showcase the capabilities of technology, these endeavors may fall short of significantly impacting overall company performance. Rewired addresses the pivotal question of transitioning from pilot initiatives to widespread technology integration. It's not just a technological challenge; it involves talent and data—how to strategically organize for large-scale delivery. Technology plays a role, but the core issue lies in organizational dynamics and the need for substantial restructuring within the domain of contract and cost management.

Q: Where should Contract and Cost Management Specialists begin their digital and AI transformation journey?

A: The starting point should always be a specific business problem within the realm of contract and cost management. Initiating the transformation with a clear understanding of the problem to be addressed is key for Contract and Cost Management Specialists. Aligning technology solutions with identified challenges, especially those related to optimizing contractual processes and enhancing financial efficiency, facilitates the development of a targeted technology roadmap.

Q: Generative AI is a significant topic in the tech landscape. Are Contract and Cost Management Specialists encountering situations where companies are creating challenges to fit this technology?

A: Yes, there is a trend where companies might be actively seeking problems to solve with generative AI within the realm of contract and cost management. The allure of this technology, often perceived as transformative, can prompt organizations to consider applications in various areas. However, it is crucial to return to fundamentals: identifying and addressing existing pain points within contract and cost management. While generative AI is a powerful tool, it's essential not to let its capabilities dictate the agenda. For instance, in the contract and cost management domain, where precision and reliability are paramount, leveraging technology for advanced analytics on contractual data, project costs, and financial efficiency may prove more effective than relying solely on generative AI. The key is to match the technology with the specific challenges that Contract and Cost Management Specialists need to address.

Penciptaan Kandungan Dalam Talian: Pentingnya Etika dan Akibatnya Terhadap Masyarakat

Mencipta kandungan semata-mata untuk populariti tanpa pertimbangan etika boleh mengakibatkan pelbagai isu, merangkumi pelbagai akibat buruk yang boleh merosakkan individu dan masyarakat secara keseluruhannya. Dalam era maklumat digital dan penjenuhan kandungan ini, usaha untuk mendapatkan populariti tanpa asas etika telah mencetuskan sejumlah masalah yang berkaitan. Masalah-masalah ini termasuk penyebaran maklumat palsu, clickbait, toksisiti, pelanggaran privasi, dan kerosakan kewangan, yang kesemuanya mempunyai kesan yang jauh ke seluruh landskap digital dan masyarakat secara besar-besaran.

Penyebaran Maklumat Palsu: Salah satu akibat yang paling mengkhawatirkan daripada memberi keutamaan kepada populariti daripada etika dalam penciptaan kandungan adalah penyebaran maklumat palsu. Pencipta kandungan yang memberi keutamaan kepada sensasi dan metrik penglibatan daripada kebenaran dapat dengan mudah menyebarkan maklumat palsu atau mengelirukan, menanamkan kebingungan dan ketidakpercayaan dalam kalangan audiens mereka. Maklumat palsu ini boleh mempunyai konsekuensi dunia nyata yang serius, dari menggugurkan usaha kesihatan awam hingga memperhebatkan ketidakstabilan sosial.

Clickbait: Kandungan yang dicipta semata-mata untuk populariti sering menggunakan taktik clickbait, dengan menggunakan tajuk atau gambar mini yang dramatis untuk memikat pengguna untuk mengklik kandungan mereka. Walaupun ini mungkin awalnya meningkatkan penglibatan dan tayangan, ia pada akhirnya akan menyebabkan kekecewaan dan frustrasi dalam kalangan pengguna yang merasa dikelirukan. Clickbait tidak hanya merosakkan kepercayaan tetapi juga menyumbang kepada budaya penggunaan kandungan yang dangkal dan menipu.

Toksisiti: Kandungan yang didorong oleh populariti juga boleh memupuk toksisiti dalam komuniti dalam talian. Pencipta kandungan yang memberi keutamaan kepada kepopuleran mungkin akan menggunakan kandungan provokatif atau kontroversi yang mendorong kepada ucapan kebencian, penggangguan dalam talian, dan buli dalam talian. Toksisiti ini tidak hanya merosakkan individu tetapi juga merosakkan pengalaman dalam talian secara keseluruhannya, menjadikan internet tempat yang kurang mesra untuk semua orang.

Pelanggaran Privasi: Dalam perlumbaan untuk populariti, pertimbangan etika berkaitan dengan privasi pengguna boleh dilupakan. Pencipta kandungan mungkin terlibat dalam pengumpulan data yang melanggar privasi atau berkongsi maklumat peribadi tanpa kebenaran, melanggar hak privasi individu dan boleh membawa kepada konsekuensi undang-undang dan etika yang serius.

Kerosakan Kewangan: Penciptaan kandungan yang tidak beretika juga boleh menyebabkan kerosakan kewangan, terutamanya apabila melibatkan penipuan atau amalan yang menipu. Kandungan yang didorong oleh populariti yang mempromosikan produk atau skim pelaburan yang meragukan boleh menipu individu yang mudah terpengaruh dan membawa kepada kerugian kewangan.

Pengikisan Kepercayaan: Seiring berlalunya waktu, penyebaran kandungan tanpa pertimbangan etika boleh mengikis kepercayaan dalam platform dalam talian dan pencipta kandungan. Apabila audiens merasa dimanipulasi atau dikelirukan, mereka kurang cenderung untuk mempercayai maklumat dan kandungan yang mereka temui dalam talian. Pengikisan kepercayaan ini mempunyai implikasi yang lebih luas terhadap kredibiliti media digital secara keseluruhannya.

Meningkatkan Sikap Cynicism: Kemunculan kandungan yang tidak beretika boleh menyumbang kepada sikap cynicism dalam kalangan pengguna dalam talian. Orang mungkin menjadi skeptikal terhadap motif di sebalik kandungan dan menjadi semakin kritis terhadap apa yang mereka temui, yang boleh menghalang perbincangan dan penglibatan yang bermakna dalam talian.

Oleh itu, adalah penting untuk menekankan kepentingan penciptaan kandungan yang beretika. Pencipta kandungan yang beretika memberi keutamaan kepada kebenaran, rasa hormat, dan kesan kandungan mereka terhadap individu dan masyarakat. Mereka adalah telus tentang motif mereka, mengakui dan membetulkan kesilapan mereka, dan aktif berusaha untuk mempromosikan persekitaran dalam talian yang positif.

Dengan mematuhi prinsip-prinsip ini, pencipta kandungan dapat menghasilkan kandungan yang bernilai dan informatif yang tidak hanya mendapat populariti tetapi juga melayani kebaikan yang lebih besar. Penciptaan kandungan yang beretika tidak hanya memberi manfaat kepada pencipta dengan memupuk kepercayaan dan kredibiliti tetapi juga menyumbang kepada ekosistem digital yang lebih sihat, lebih terinformasi, dan lebih hormat yang memberi manfaat kepada semua pengguna. Dalam era di mana kandungan digital mempunyai pengaruh yang besar, pertimbangan etika harus memandu penciptaan kandungan untuk memastikan masa depan digital yang bertanggungjawab dan berkelanjutan.

Ethical Content Creation in the Digital Age: Consequences for Society

Creating content solely for popularity without ethical considerations can lead to various issues, encompassing a broad spectrum of detrimental consequences that can harm individuals and society as a whole. In this era of digital information and content saturation, the pursuit of popularity without ethical underpinnings has given rise to a host of interconnected problems. These issues include misinformation, clickbait, toxicity, privacy violations, and financial harm, all of which have far-reaching repercussions on our digital landscape and society at large.

Misinformation: One of the most concerning consequences of prioritizing popularity over ethics in content creation is the proliferation of misinformation. Content creators who prioritize sensationalism and engagement metrics over truth can easily spread false or misleading information, sowing confusion and mistrust among their audience. This misinformation can have dire real-world consequences, from undermining public health efforts to fueling social unrest.

Clickbait: Content created solely for popularity often resorts to clickbait tactics, using sensationalized headlines or thumbnails to entice users to click on their content. While this may initially boost engagement and views, it ultimately leads to disappointment and frustration among users who feel misled. Clickbait not only erodes trust but also contributes to a culture of shallow and deceptive content consumption.

Toxicity: Popularity-driven content can also foster toxicity within online communities. Content creators who prioritize virality may resort to provocative or controversial content that encourages hate speech, harassment, and online bullying. This toxicity not only harms individuals but also tarnishes the overall online experience, making the internet a less welcoming place for everyone.

Privacy Violations: In the race for popularity, ethical considerations related to user privacy can be overlooked. Content creators may engage in invasive data collection or share personal information without consent, violating individuals' privacy rights and potentially leading to serious legal and ethical consequences.

Financial Harm: Unethical content creation can also lead to financial harm, especially when it involves scams or fraudulent practices. Popularity-driven content that promotes questionable products or investment schemes can deceive vulnerable individuals and lead to financial losses.

Erosion of Trust: Over time, the proliferation of content lacking ethical considerations can erode trust in online platforms and content creators. When audiences feel manipulated or deceived, they are less likely to trust the information and content they encounter online. This erosion of trust has broader implications for the credibility of digital media as a whole.

Contributing to Cynicism: The prevalence of unethical content can contribute to a general sense of cynicism among online users. People may become skeptical of the motives behind content and become increasingly critical of what they encounter, which can hinder meaningful discourse and engagement online.

Therefore, it is imperative to emphasize the importance of ethical content creation. Ethical content creators prioritize truth, respect, and mindfulness of their content's impact on individuals and society. They are transparent about their motives, acknowledge and rectify their mistakes, and actively work towards promoting a positive online environment.

By adhering to these principles, content creators can produce valuable and informative content that not only garners popularity but also serves the greater good. Ethical content creation not only benefits creators by fostering trust and credibility but also contributes to a healthier, more informed, and more respectful digital ecosystem that benefits all users. In an age where digital content wields immense influence, ethical considerations must guide content creation to ensure a responsible and sustainable digital future.

Damages and Liability Limitations in Qatar: A General Review

Introduction: In Qatar, the recoverability of damages and limitations on liability in contract law are regulated primarily by Law No 22 of 2004, which encompasses the Qatar Civil Code (the Civil Code). This legal framework outlines the fundamental principles of contract law, including the essential components of a contract, conditions for a contract to be considered defective, and the rules governing the enforceability, validity, and termination of contracts.

This analysis delves into the key aspects of recoverability of damages and the scope of liability limitations under Qatari law.

Autonomy of contract: The Civil Code in Qatar recognizes the principle of freedom of contract, allowing parties to tailor their agreements to their specific needs within the bounds of certain legal constraints. Article 154 of the Civil Code, for instance, expressly states that "The contract may include any provision agreed to by the contracting parties unless such provision is prohibited by law or in breach of public order or morality." This principle upholds the autonomy of contracting parties to negotiate terms, including those pertaining to liability and its limitation or exemption.

For instance, the common misconception that force majeure invariably excuses a party from performance or liability is debunked by Article 258 of the Civil Code, which permits agreements that assign liability for force majeure or unexpected events. Furthermore, Article 259(1) and (2) of the Civil Code underscore the parties' liberty to exempt each other from certain obligations, including liability for failure, delay, fraud, or serious fault. However, there are exceptions to this freedom, as discussed later in this analysis.

Compensatory damages for breach of contract: Under the Civil Code, parties can recover liquidated damages and/or actual damages. The recoverability and the extent of each form of damages hinge on the specific language within the contract. Any interpretation leading to double recovery would be challenging to uphold.

Liquidated damages, a common feature in construction contracts in Qatar, enable parties to pre-determine compensation amounts in the event of delays, usually specified as daily rates for each day of delay. This approach serves to mitigate uncertainty and facilitate damages calculation. A notable advantage is that, typically, only the occurrence of the triggering event, such as a delay, needs to be proven to recover the agreed-upon liquidated damages, absent a valid defense from the defaulting party.

Article 265 of the Civil Code expressly permits the inclusion of liquidated damages in contracts. It states that "the parties to the contract may assess in advance the amount of compensation." However, Article 266 empowers the court or an arbitral tribunal applying Qatari law to reduce these damages if they are proven to be considerably exaggerated or if the claimant suffered no actual detriment. This provision is mandatory but can be challenging to apply practically.

In stark contrast to common law jurisdictions, Qatar and several other civil law jurisdictions accept the enforceability of contractual penalty provisions. Qatar's Civil Code does not automatically render liquidated damages unenforceable simply because they may serve as penalties. This distinction emphasizes the divergence in approach between common law and civil law systems.

In addition to liquidated damages, the Civil Code also permits the recovery of actual damages. Article 256 of the Civil Code mandates the debtor to compensate the creditor for the "detriment sustained," requiring proof of breach, loss, causation, and a direct link between the breach and the loss.

Article 263(2) of the Civil Code extends the scope of actual damages, encompassing costs of rectification, completion, operational and staffing costs, lost profits, and any other losses resulting directly from the defaulting party's non-performance.

Furthermore, moral or reputational damages can also be recovered under Article 264 of the Civil Code.

Liability Restriction Under Qatari Law: Consistent with the principle of freedom of contract, parties in Qatar have the liberty to impose limits on their contractual liabilities, subject to specific restrictions. For instance, construction contracts frequently incorporate caps on liquidated damages, often set at 10% of the contract value, preventing the non-defaulting party from recovering more than this percentage.

The Civil Code not only allows such limitations but also provides mechanisms to safeguard them. Article 267 of the Civil Code underscores the general validity, enforceability, and binding nature of contractual limitations on liability, except when "fraud or serious fault" is proven.

Non-Excludable Liabilities: While freedom of contract is a fundamental principle in Qatar, it is not without limitations. Certain liabilities remain immune to limitation or exclusion under Qatari law. For example, Article 253(2) of the Civil Code unequivocally asserts that "the obligor shall be liable for any fraud or serious fault committed by him," rendering contractual limitations inapplicable to instances of fraud or serious fault. However, Article 259(2) of the Civil Code permits agreements to exempt the debtor from liability for fraud or serious fault arising from the actions of employees.

Additionally, liabilities cannot be limited or excluded for criminal acts. Moreover, Articles 711 to 715 of the Civil Code establish decennial liability in construction contracts, which imposes strict joint liability on contractors, architects, and engineers for structural defects, even if those defects arise from factors beyond their control.

Conclusion: In Qatar, parties enjoy significant freedom of contract, subject to specific legal constraints. Understanding the nuances of recoverable damages and the scope of liability limitations under Qatari law is essential when drafting contracts. While liquidated damages and limitations on liability are generally valid and enforceable, exceptions exist for fraud, serious fault, and certain forms of liability prescribed by law. Parties should navigate these legal parameters to avoid unforeseen complications in their contracts.