What is different between Faraid and Takaful Hibah?

Faraid and Takaful Hibah are two concepts related to Islamic inheritance and insurance practices. Here's an explanation of the differences between them:

Faraid: Faraid is the Islamic law of inheritance, which determines the distribution of a deceased person's assets among their heirs according to specific rules outlined in the Quran. Faraid provides a structured framework to ensure fair distribution of wealth among the rightful heirs. It specifies the shares of inheritance for different relatives, such as spouses, children, parents, and other close family members. The distribution is based on predetermined percentages and varies depending on the relationship and number of heirs.

Takaful Hibah: Takaful Hibah is a concept related to Islamic insurance, specifically in the context of a Takaful policy. Takaful is an Islamic insurance system based on the principles of mutual cooperation and shared responsibility. Takaful Hibah refers to the voluntary gift (hibah) made by the Takaful operator to the participant (policyholder) in the event of a surplus in the Takaful fund or upon maturity of the policy. The Takaful operator, as a gesture of goodwill, may distribute a portion of the surplus or profits (after meeting expenses and claims) to the participants in the form of a Hibah.

Differences between Faraid and Takaful Hibah:

Nature: Faraid is a legal framework that governs the distribution of inheritance according to Islamic principles. On the other hand, Takaful Hibah is a voluntary gift given by the Takaful operator to the policyholder in a Takaful insurance arrangement.

Purpose: Faraid ensures the fair distribution of a deceased person's assets among their heirs, maintaining the principles of Islamic inheritance. Takaful Hibah, on the other hand, is a way for the Takaful operator to share surplus or profits with the policyholders as a gesture of goodwill.

Context: Faraid applies specifically to inheritance matters, whereas Takaful Hibah is relevant to Takaful insurance policies. They operate in different domains but both have Islamic principles at their core.

It's important to note that the interpretation and implementation of these concepts may vary in different regions and among different scholars or Takaful operators. Consulting with Islamic legal experts or scholars knowledgeable in Islamic finance would provide more specific and detailed insights tailored to your particular circumstances or jurisdiction.

In the context of Faraid, the rules for the distribution of inheritance are derived from the Quran. The Quran provides guidance on the division of assets among the rightful heirs. Some relevant verses regarding inheritance in the Quran include:

Surah An-Nisa (4:11): "Allah instructs you concerning your children: for the male, what is equal to the share of two females."

Surah An-Nisa (4:12): "And for you is half of what your wives leave if they have no child. But if they have a child, for you is one-fourth of what they leave, after any bequest they [may have] made or debt. And for the wives is one-fourth if you leave no child. But if you leave a child, then for them is an eighth of what you leave, after any bequest you [may have] made or debt."

These verses, along with other related verses, form the basis for determining the shares of inheritance for different family members according to Islamic law.

As for Takaful Hibah, the concept of voluntary gift (hibah) in Takaful insurance arrangements is not specifically mentioned in the Quran. It is an application within the framework of Takaful operations that has been developed based on Islamic principles of mutual cooperation and fairness.

It's important to note that the implementation and interpretation of these concepts, including Faraid and Takaful, have been developed over centuries by Islamic jurists and scholars using various sources, including the Quran, Hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad), and scholarly consensus (ijma).

What is Included in ‘Lump Sum’?

 Q1: In a lump sum contract, if something is shown on the drawings and/or in the specifications but not included in the bill of quantities, the contractor may face difficulties in claiming additional payment. However, the outcome can vary based on the specific contract provisions and circumstances. Here are a few key considerations:

1.            Contractual Agreement: The terms and conditions outlined in the contract between the client and the contractor will determine the rights and obligations of both parties. The contract should specify how variations, changes, or omissions are to be handled and whether the contractor can claim additional payment for work not included in the bill of quantities.

2.            Scope of Work: The scope of work, as defined in the contract documents, including drawings, specifications, and bill of quantities, is crucial in determining the contractor's obligations. If the contract clearly states that the bill of quantities is the definitive list of items for which the contractor will be paid, the contractor may have limited grounds to claim additional payment for work not included in the bill of quantities.

3.            Contract Interpretation: Interpreting the contract becomes important when discrepancies arise between the drawings, specifications, and bill of quantities. If the contract clearly states that the drawings and specifications take precedence over the bill of quantities or if there are ambiguities in the contract documents, it may support the contractor's claim for additional payment.

4.            Agreement and Communication: If the client and contractor have agreed, either formally or informally, to include certain work that is not listed in the bill of quantities, it may strengthen the contractor's case for claiming additional payment. Any documented agreement, change orders, or correspondence between the parties can be valuable in supporting the claim.

5.            Notice and Documentation: It is crucial for the contractor to provide timely notice to the client regarding any discrepancies or variations encountered during the construction process. The contractor should document the issue, including any additional work performed, its impact on costs and schedule, and any requests made to the client for additional compensation. Clear and comprehensive documentation will strengthen the contractor's position when seeking additional payment.

In a lump sum contract, the contractor typically assumes the risk of pricing the work accurately and accounting for all necessary items within the bill of quantities. However, if the contract provisions and circumstances provide a reasonable basis, such as explicit agreement or ambiguity in the contract documents, the contractor may have grounds to claim additional payment. Consulting legal professionals or contract specialists familiar with the specific contract terms and governing laws is advisable in such situations.

 

Q2: In a lump sum contract, if something is measured in the bill of quantities but not shown on the drawings and/or in the specifications, the employer typically cannot make a deduction from the contract price. Here are some important points to consider:

1.            Contractual Agreement: The terms and conditions specified in the contract between the employer and the contractor will govern their respective rights and obligations. If the bill of quantities is defined as the definitive list of items and quantities for which the contractor will be paid, the employer may not have grounds to make a deduction for items measured in the bill of quantities.

2.            Scope of Work: The scope of work is generally defined by the contract documents, including the drawings, specifications, and bill of quantities. If the bill of quantities includes specific items and quantities, the employer is expected to pay the contract price for those items, even if they are not shown on the drawings or specifications.

3.            Contract Interpretation: The interpretation of the contract is essential in determining the parties' obligations. If the contract language is clear and unambiguous and establishes that the bill of quantities takes precedence over the drawings and specifications, the employer may not have the authority to make deductions for items included in the bill of quantities.

4.            Change Orders: If the employer wishes to deduct or exclude items from the contract price that are measured in the bill of quantities but not shown on the drawings or specifications, they would generally need to follow the appropriate change order process. A change order is a formal agreement between the employer and the contractor that modifies the terms of the contract, including the scope and price. Without a valid change order, the employer may not have the right to make deductions.

It's important to note that contract provisions and local laws can vary, so it is essential to review the specific terms of the contract and seek legal advice if necessary. Consulting legal professionals or contract specialists familiar with the relevant laws and contractual obligations will help ensure a proper understanding of the rights and obligations of both the employer and the contractor in such situations.

  

Q3: In a lump sum contract, if the bill of quantities contains lower quantities than those accurately ascertained from the drawings, the contractor typically cannot claim additional payment solely based on the higher quantities found in the drawings. Here's why:

1.            Contractual Agreement: The terms and conditions specified in the contract govern the rights and obligations of both parties. If the contract explicitly states that the bill of quantities is the definitive basis for payment, the contractor may have limited grounds to claim additional payment based on higher quantities found in the drawings.

2.            Scope of Work: The scope of work is usually defined by the contract documents, including the drawings, specifications, and bill of quantities. If the bill of quantities sets out the agreed-upon quantities, it becomes the basis for determining the contract price. Deviations between the quantities in the bill of quantities and the drawings may not automatically entitle the contractor to additional payment.

3.            Contract Interpretation: Interpreting the contract becomes important in understanding the parties' rights and obligations. If the contract language is clear and unambiguous, and it establishes that the bill of quantities takes precedence over the drawings, the contractor may not have a valid claim for additional payment based on the higher quantities found in the drawings alone.

However, there are some exceptions or circumstances that could potentially support a claim for additional payment:

a. Varying Scope: If the higher quantities in the drawings indicate a change or variation in the scope of work, the contractor may be entitled to additional payment. The contractor would need to follow the appropriate change order process and provide proper documentation to support the claim.

b. Ambiguous Contract Language: If the contract language is unclear or contradictory regarding the precedence of quantities between the bill of quantities and the drawings, it may allow for interpretation in favor of the contractor. In such cases, legal advice and careful review of the contract language become crucial.

It's essential to carefully review the specific terms of the contract and consult with legal professionals or contract specialists familiar with the governing laws and contractual obligations. They can provide guidance on whether the contractor has a valid claim for additional payment based on the higher quantities found in the drawings.

 

Q4: In a lump sum contract, if the bill of quantities contains greater quantities than those accurately ascertained from the drawings, the employer generally cannot make a deduction from the contract price based solely on the lower quantities found in the drawings. Here's why:

1.            Contractual Agreement: The terms and conditions specified in the contract govern the rights and obligations of both parties. If the contract explicitly states that the bill of quantities is the definitive basis for payment, the employer may have limited grounds to make deductions based on lower quantities found in the drawings.

2.            Scope of Work: The scope of work is typically defined by the contract documents, including the drawings, specifications, and bill of quantities. If the bill of quantities sets out the agreed-upon quantities, it becomes the basis for determining the contract price. Deviations between the quantities in the bill of quantities and the drawings may not automatically justify deductions from the contract price.

3.            Contract Interpretation: Interpreting the contract becomes important in understanding the parties' rights and obligations. If the contract language is clear and unambiguous and establishes that the bill of quantities takes precedence over the drawings, the employer may not have a valid basis for making deductions based on the lower quantities found in the drawings alone.

However, there are certain exceptions or circumstances where the employer may be able to make deductions:

a. Varying Scope: If the lower quantities in the drawings indicate a change or variation in the scope of work, the employer may be justified in making deductions. Proper change order procedures would need to be followed, and supporting documentation would be required to demonstrate the variation and its impact on the contract price.

b. Contractual Provisions: The contract may contain specific provisions allowing the employer to make deductions under certain circumstances, such as when there are discrepancies between the bill of quantities and the drawings. These provisions would need to be carefully reviewed and interpreted to determine their applicability.

It's crucial to carefully review the specific terms of the contract and consult with legal professionals or contract specialists familiar with the governing laws and contractual obligations. They can provide guidance on whether the employer has a valid basis for making deductions from the contract price based on the lower quantities found in the drawings.

 

Q5: In a lump sum contract situation where a work item or items are to be omitted entirely, and the bill of quantities includes different quantities than those shown on the drawings, the basis for the omission would depend on the specific provisions in the contract. Here are two possible scenarios:

1.            Contractual Agreement: If the contract clearly defines the hierarchy or precedence between the bill of quantities and the drawings, that provision should be followed. For example, if the contract states that the drawings take precedence over the bill of quantities, the quantities shown on the drawings would be the basis for the omission. In this case, the contractor would be entitled to exclude the entire work item or items as indicated on the drawings, even if the bill of quantities includes different quantities.

2.            Contractual Variation: If the contract allows for variations or changes to the bill of quantities, there may be provisions outlining the process for omitting work items or adjusting quantities. In this case, the contract should be followed, and the appropriate variation procedure should be followed to agree upon the omission and its impact on the contract price.

In both scenarios, it's important to ensure that any omissions or variations are handled in accordance with the contract provisions. This typically involves following proper change order procedures, providing written notice to the relevant parties, and documenting the agreed-upon changes to the scope of work and contract price.

To determine the specific course of action in a given contract, it is recommended to carefully review the contract provisions related to omissions, variations, and the hierarchy between the bill of quantities and the drawings. Seeking advice from legal professionals or contract specialists familiar with the specific contract terms and governing laws will ensure that the correct basis for the omission is followed and the necessary procedures are properly executed.

 

Q6: In a lump sum contract situation where the bill of quantities includes a higher or lower specification for a measured item compared to that included in the contract specification, the contract specification generally takes precedence and is included in the contract price. Here's why:

1.            Contractual Agreement: The terms and conditions specified in the contract govern the rights and obligations of both parties. The contract specification is typically the primary document that outlines the required specifications for the project. If there is a discrepancy between the bill of quantities and the contract specification, the contract specification is considered the authoritative source.

2.            Scope of Work: The scope of work, including the required specifications, is typically defined in the contract specification. The bill of quantities provides the quantities of the items to be measured but does not necessarily dictate the specifications. Therefore, the contract specification is considered the basis for determining the required specifications for the project.

3.            Contract Interpretation: Interpreting the contract becomes important in understanding the parties' rights and obligations. If the contract language is clear and unambiguous, and it establishes that the contract specification takes precedence over the bill of quantities, the specifications included in the contract specification are typically the ones included in the contract price.

In situations where there is a discrepancy between the bill of quantities and the contract specification, it is important to address the issue and reconcile the specifications. This may involve issuing a formal change order to modify the contract specification or bill of quantities to align them. The change order process typically involves documenting the agreed-upon changes and any associated adjustments to the contract price.

It is advisable to carefully review the specific terms of the contract and consult with legal professionals or contract specialists familiar with the governing laws and contractual obligations. They can provide guidance on how to address discrepancies between the bill of quantities and the contract specification and ensure that the correct specifications are followed and included in the contract price.

Kuasa pemikiran

 Kuasa pemikiran adalah subjek yang menarik yang telah dikaji oleh pelbagai disiplin, termasuk psikologi, falsafah, dan spiritualiti. Walaupun tahap kuasa pemikiran adalah subjektif dan berbeza dari individu ke individu, pemikiran mempunyai potensi untuk mempengaruhi kehidupan kita dalam beberapa cara. Berikut adalah beberapa aspek mengenai kuasa pemikiran:

1. Pengaruh terhadap emosi: Pemikiran dapat mempengaruhi emosi kita secara langsung. Pemikiran positif cenderung meningkatkan suasana hati kita, meningkatkan keyakinan diri, dan meningkatkan kesejahteraan secara keseluruhan, manakala pemikiran negatif dapat menyebabkan perasaan sedih, kebimbangan, dan tekanan.

2. Persepsi terhadap realiti: Pemikiran kita membentuk bagaimana kita melihat dan menafsirkan dunia di sekeliling kita. Mereka dapat mewarnai pengalaman kita, mempengaruhi sama ada kita melihat situasi sebagai positif atau negatif, mencabar atau dapat diatasi. Ini, seterusnya, mempengaruhi sikap, tindakan, dan pengambilan keputusan kita.

3. Ramalan yang memenuhi diri: Pemikiran dapat menjadi ramalan yang memenuhi diri. Jika kita secara konsisten berpikir secara positif dan percaya pada kemampuan kita, kita lebih cenderung mengambil tindakan yang mengarah kepada kejayaan. Sebaliknya, jika kita selalu meragukan diri sendiri dan fokus pada hasil negatif, kita mungkin secara tidak sengaja menghalang kemajuan kita.

4. Manifestasi dan Undang-undang Tarikan: Beberapa ajaran falsafah dan spiritualiti mengesyorkan bahawa pemikiran memiliki kekuatan untuk mewujudkan hasrat kita. Menurut Undang-undang Tarikan, pemikiran positif dan visualisasi dapat menarik pengalaman dan hasil positif ke dalam kehidupan kita.

5. Kebolehan kognitif dan penyelesaian masalah: Pemikiran memainkan peranan penting dalam proses kognitif dan kemampuan penyelesaian masalah kita. Kemampuan untuk berfikir secara kritis, menganalisis situasi, dan menghasilkan penyelesaian kreatif bergantung pada pemikiran dan proses mental kita.

6. Pengaruh terhadap perilaku: Pemikiran dapat mempengaruhi perilaku dan tindakan kita. Keyakinan, sikap, dan niat kita sering tercermin dalam pilihan yang kita buat dan cara kita berinteraksi dengan orang lain. Pemikiran positif dapat memotivasi kita untuk mengejar tujuan, manakala pemikiran negatif dapat menyebabkan sabotaj diri atau ketiadaan tindakan.

7. Kesan terhadap kesejahteraan secara keseluruhan: Pola pemikiran negatif yang berterusan dapat menyumbang kepada tekanan kronik, kebimbangan, dan juga dapat mempengaruhi kesihatan fizikal. Sebaliknya, membina pemikiran positif dan sikap syukur telah dikaitkan dengan peningkatan kesejahteraan mental dan fizikal.

8. Pengaruh sosial: Pemikiran memiliki kekuatan untuk membentuk kesedaran kolektif dan mempengaruhi masyarakat secara keseluruhan. Idea dan ideologi, apabila dikongsi dan diterima oleh sejumlah besar orang, dapat mendorong perubahan sosial dan mempengaruhi arah sejarah.

Perlu diingat bahawa walaupun pemikiran memiliki potensi menjadi kuat, mereka bukanlah faktor penentu tunggal dalam hasil. Faktor-faktor luaran, tindakan, dan keadaan juga memainkan peranan penting. Namun, kuasa pemikiran terletak pada kemampuannya untuk membentuk persepsi, sikap, dan perilaku kita, yang pada gilirannya dapat mempengaruhi kualiti hidup secara keseluruhan.

Apa bezanya fitnah dan kritik?

 

Fitnah dan kritik adalah dua konsep yang berbeda dalam konteks pengungkapan pendapat atau penilaian terhadap seseorang atau sesuatu. Berikut adalah perbedaan antara fitnah dan kritik:

1. Definisi:

•   Fitnah: Fitnah merujuk pada penyebaran informasi palsu atau tidak benar yang bertujuan untuk merusak reputasi atau menyebabkan kerugian pada seseorang atau kelompok. Fitnah melibatkan pernyataan yang tidak didukung oleh fakta atau bukti yang sahih.

•   Kritik: Kritik merujuk pada penilaian yang dilakukan terhadap seseorang atau sesuatu berdasarkan analisis rasional, pengamatan, atau pemahaman yang objektif. Kritik dapat berupa penilaian negatif atau masukan konstruktif yang dimaksudkan untuk memberikan pemahaman yang lebih baik atau perbaikan.

2. Niat:

•   Fitnah: Fitnah dilakukan dengan niat jahat atau sengaja untuk merusak reputasi atau membahayakan seseorang atau kelompok. Tujuan fitnah umumnya adalah mencemarkan nama baik atau menciptakan persepsi negatif tanpa memperhatikan kebenaran.

•    Kritik: Kritik dilakukan dengan niat yang bermaksud membangun atau memberikan masukan konstruktif untuk perbaikan. Kritik biasanya bertujuan untuk memberikan sudut pandang baru, mengidentifikasi kelemahan, atau menawarkan saran perbaikan.

3.  Landasan:

•    Fitnah: Fitnah tidak didasarkan pada fakta yang terverifikasi atau bukti yang sahih. Pernyataan fitnah sering kali tidak dapat dipertanggungjawabkan atau tidak memiliki dasar yang kuat.

•    Kritik: Kritik didasarkan pada fakta, pengamatan, atau argumen yang terukur. Kritik mencoba memberikan pemahaman yang lebih baik atau memberikan pandangan yang objektif.

4.   Dampak:

•    Fitnah: Fitnah dapat merusak reputasi seseorang secara serius, memicu konflik, atau menyebabkan kerugian yang signifikan. Fitnah juga dapat menciptakan ketidakpercayaan atau merusak hubungan antara individu atau kelompok.

•    Kritik: Kritik dapat mempengaruhi opini atau pandangan seseorang terhadap suatu hal, tetapi tujuan utamanya adalah memberikan masukan konstruktif atau membangun kesadaran akan kelemahan yang mungkin ada.

Penting untuk membedakan antara fitnah dan kritik karena fitnah memiliki konsekuensi yang merugikan dan dapat melanggar hak-hak individu, sementara kritik yang dilakukan secara konstruktif dapat membantu dalam pertumbuhan pribadi, perbaikan, atau kemajuan suatu hal.

Fitnah dan kritik dalam perspektif Islam

 Dalam perspektif Islam, terdapat perbedaan yang signifikan antara fitnah dan kritik. Berikut adalah penjelasan mengenai keduanya:

1. Fitnah dalam Islam:

• Definisi: Fitnah dalam Islam merujuk pada penyebaran berita palsu atau informasi yang menyesatkan dengan tujuan memicu konflik, memfitnah orang lain, atau menyebabkan kerusakan sosial.

• Kecondongan negatif: Fitnah dalam Islam dianggap sebagai perbuatan yang sangat tercela dan diharamkan. Al-Quran menyebutkan dalam beberapa ayat tentang larangan fitnah, seperti dalam Surah Al-Hujurat (49:6): "Hai orang-orang yang beriman, jika datang kepadamu seorang fasik membawa suatu berita, maka teliti dahulu, agar kamu tidak menimpakan suatu musibah kepada suatu kaum tanpa mengetahui keadaannya yang menyebabkan kamu menyesal atas perbuatanmu itu."

• Menghindari: Umat Muslim dianjurkan untuk menghindari menyebarkan fitnah, mendengarkan fitnah, atau menjadi bagian dari proses fitnah. Islam mendorong umatnya untuk mencari kebenaran sejati, memverifikasi informasi sebelum mempercayainya, dan menghormati reputasi orang lain.

2. Kritik dalam Islam:

• Definisi: Kritik dalam Islam merujuk pada penyampaian pendapat atau penilaian secara konstruktif tentang seseorang atau sesuatu dengan niat baik, berdasarkan dalil-dalil agama atau kebijaksanaan.

• Memiliki landasan: Dalam Islam, kritik yang disampaikan dengan cara yang baik dan sopan, serta didasarkan pada hujjah (dalil atau argumen yang sahih) dapat dianggap sebagai bentuk amar ma'ruf nahi munkar (menganjurkan kebaikan dan mencegah kemungkaran), yang dianjurkan dalam agama.

• Tujuan positif: Kritik yang dilakukan dengan tujuan perbaikan, pembelajaran, atau untuk meningkatkan kualitas individu atau masyarakat adalah diterima dalam Islam, asalkan dilakukan dengan cara yang sopan dan tidak merusak reputasi seseorang secara tidak adil.

Dalam Islam, fitnah dianggap sebagai perbuatan dosa yang serius, sementara kritik yang dilakukan dengan niat baik dan cara yang benar adalah diperbolehkan dan bahkan dianjurkan selama dilakukan dengan tujuan memperbaiki dan memberikan manfaat. Penting bagi umat Muslim untuk membedakan antara fitnah dan kritik yang konstruktif, serta berpegang pada prinsip-prinsip kebenaran, keadilan, dan penghormatan terhadap reputasi dan hak-hak individu.

How Lean Contracting and Constructions could be applicable to Quantity Surveying and Contracts Management?

 Lean contracting is a set of principles and practices that can be used to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of construction projects. It can be applied to quantity surveying and contracts management in a number of ways, including:

• Identifying waste. Lean contracting focuses on identifying and eliminating waste in all aspects of the construction process. This includes waste of time, materials, and effort. Quantity surveyors can help to identify waste by carefully tracking costs and by using value engineering techniques.

• Improving communication. Lean contracting relies on effective communication between all parties involved in the construction process. This includes the client, the contractor, the architect, the engineer, and the quantity surveyor. Quantity surveyors can help to improve communication by providing clear and concise reports and by facilitating regular meetings between the parties involved.

• Streamlining processes. Lean contracting seeks to streamline the construction process by eliminating unnecessary steps and by automating as much as possible. Quantity surveyors can help to streamline processes by developing standard forms of contract and by using project management software.

• Empowering the workforce. Lean contracting empowers the workforce by giving them the authority to make decisions and to take action to improve the construction process. Quantity surveyors can help to empower the workforce by providing them with the training and the resources they need to be successful.

By applying the principles of lean contracting, quantity surveyors and contracts managers can help to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of construction projects. This can lead to reduced costs, improved quality, and shorter project timelines.

Here are some specific examples of how lean contracting can be applied to quantity surveying and contracts management:

• Quantity surveyors can use value engineering techniques to identify and eliminate waste in the construction process. Value engineering is a systematic approach to identifying and eliminating unnecessary costs from a project. It can be used to reduce the cost of materials, labor, and other expenses.

• Quantity surveyors can use project management software to streamline the construction process. Project management software can help to track costs, schedule tasks, and communicate with the project team. This can help to improve efficiency and reduce the risk of delays.

• Quantity surveyors can help to empower the workforce by providing them with the training and the resources they need to be successful. By empowering the workforce, quantity surveyors can help to improve communication and collaboration, which can lead to better decision-making and improved results.

By applying the principles of lean contracting, quantity surveyors and contracts managers can help to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of construction projects. This can lead to reduced costs, improved quality, and shorter project timelines.

Lean principles and practices can be applied to various industries and disciplines, including quantity surveying and contracts management. Lean methodologies aim to eliminate waste, improve efficiency, and enhance overall project performance. Here's how Lean concepts can be applied in the context of quantity surveying and contracts management:

1. Value identification: Lean thinking encourages focusing on the value-added activities and identifying those that do not contribute directly to the project's objectives. In quantity surveying and contracts management, this means identifying the tasks and processes that directly contribute to the successful completion of the project and eliminating or minimizing non-value-added activities.

2. Streamlining processes: Lean emphasizes the elimination of waste and streamlining processes. In quantity surveying, this could involve identifying and removing unnecessary steps in cost estimation, budgeting, and tendering processes. Similarly, in contracts management, streamlining processes such as contract administration, change management, and payment procedures can reduce delays and improve efficiency.

3. Continuous improvement: Lean encourages a culture of continuous improvement. In quantity surveying and contracts management, this means regularly reviewing and analyzing processes to identify areas for improvement. It involves seeking feedback from stakeholders, evaluating performance metrics, and implementing changes to enhance efficiency, reduce errors, and deliver better outcomes.

4. Collaborative approach: Lean promotes collaboration and communication among project participants. In quantity surveying and contracts management, this translates into fostering effective communication between the quantity surveyor, project managers, contractors, and clients. By improving collaboration and sharing information, potential issues can be identified and resolved early, leading to smoother project execution.

5. Standardization and documentation: Lean principles emphasize the importance of standardization and documentation of best practices. In quantity surveying, developing standardized templates, methodologies, and guidelines can improve consistency and efficiency in cost estimation, bill of quantities, and valuation processes. Similarly, in contracts management, establishing standard procedures for contract administration, claims management, and dispute resolution can enhance efficiency and reduce errors.

6. Data-driven decision-making: Lean encourages the use of data to drive decision-making. In quantity surveying and contracts management, leveraging technology and data analytics can provide valuable insights into project performance, cost trends, and risk analysis. Data-driven decision-making enables more accurate cost forecasting, improved resource allocation, and proactive risk management.

By adopting Lean principles and practices, quantity surveyors and contracts managers can enhance their operational efficiency, reduce waste, and deliver projects with improved quality, reduced costs, and enhanced client satisfaction.

References.

"Lean Construction: A Comprehensive Guide" by Ade Asefeso MCIPS MBA: This book provides an overview of Lean principles in the construction industry, including quantity surveying and contracts management.

"Applying Lean in Construction and Design Projects" by Steven Bell and Michael A. Riley: This book explores Lean principles and practices and how they can be applied to construction projects, including aspects related to quantity surveying and contracts management.

"Applying Lean Principles to Improve Construction Processes" by the Lean Construction Institute (LCI): LCI is a non-profit organization that promotes Lean principles in the construction industry. They offer resources, case studies, and articles related to applying Lean in various construction processes, including quantity surveying and contracts management.

"Lean Construction: From Theory to Implementation" by Orel Zwakhoven, Lauri Koskela, and Ron Sharpe: This book discusses Lean construction principles and their practical implementation, including their relevance to quantity surveying and contracts management.

Lean Construction: A Practical Guide by James P. Womack and Daniel T. Jones

Lean Construction and Lean Contracting: A Practical Guide for Owners, Contractors, and Consultants by David B. Walker

Lean Construction: The Definitive Guide by Lauri Koskela

Lean Construction: A Systems Approach to Building Products and Systems by Steven E. Spear and H. Kent Bowen

Lean Construction: A Primer by Thomas W. Luecke

Lean Construction: A Handbook for the Lean Practitioner by Mark J. Prenzler

These resources should provide you with valuable insights into the application of Lean principles in the context of quantity surveying and contracts management.

A comparative analysis of different price adjustment for fluctuation formula methods in respective Conditions of Contract used in construction projects

 a comparative analysis of different price adjustment for fluctuation formula methods in respective Conditions of Contract used in construction projects in tabulated form:

Price Adjustment Formula Method	FIDIC	JCT	NEC
Fixed Price	-	Clause 12.2	Clause 50.1
Unit Price	-	Clause 12.3	Clause 50.2
Cost-plus	-	Clause 12.4	Clause 50.3
Index-linked	Clause 13.1	Clause 13.1	Clause 13.1

The FIDIC Conditions of Contract are a set of standard form contracts used in international construction projects. The JCT Conditions of Contract are a set of standard form contracts used in the United Kingdom. The NEC Conditions of Contract are a set of standard form contracts used in the United States.

The fixed price contract is the simplest type of contract. The contractor agrees to complete the project for a fixed price. The price is agreed upon at the start of the project and does not change, regardless of changes in market conditions.

The unit price contract is more complex than the fixed price contract. The contractor agrees to complete the project for a unit price per unit of work. The unit price is agreed upon at the start of the project and is used to calculate the total price of the project.

The cost-plus contract is the most complex type of contract. The contractor is reimbursed for its actual costs, plus a profit margin. The contractor's costs are typically calculated on a time-and-materials basis.

The index-linked contract is a hybrid of the fixed price and unit price contracts. The price is adjusted based on a published index. The index is typically a measure of inflation or the cost of construction materials.

The best price adjustment formula method for a particular project will depend on a number of factors, including the size and complexity of the project, the predictability of costs, and the risk appetite of the parties involved.

Here are some additional details about each price adjustment formula method:

Fixed Price

Fixed price contracts are simple to understand and calculate. They are also the most common type of contract used in construction projects. However, fixed price contracts can be risky for both the contractor and the owner. If the cost of materials or labor increases, the contractor may not be able to complete the project for the agreed-upon price. This could lead to financial losses for the contractor and delays for the owner.

Unit Price

Unit price contracts are more complex than fixed price contracts, but they offer more protection for both the contractor and the owner. Under a unit price contract, the contractor is paid a fixed price per unit of work. This means that the contractor is not exposed to the risk of cost increases. However, the owner is exposed to the risk of cost decreases. If the cost of materials or labor decreases, the owner will still have to pay the contractor the agreed-upon price per unit of work.

Cost-plus

Cost-plus contracts offer the most protection for the contractor, but they offer the least protection for the owner. Under a cost-plus contract, the contractor is reimbursed for its actual costs, plus a profit margin. This means that the contractor is not exposed to any risk of cost increases. However, the owner is exposed to all of the risk of cost increases. If the cost of materials or labor increases, the owner will have to pay the contractor more money.

Index-linked

Index-linked contracts offer a middle ground between fixed price and cost-plus contracts. Under an index-linked contract, the price is adjusted based on a published index. This means that the contractor is not exposed to the risk of extreme cost increases or decreases. However, the contractor is still exposed to some risk of cost changes.

References:

• FIDIC Conditions of Contract, 2017 Edition
• JCT Standard Building Contract, 2016 Edition
• NEC3 Engineering and Construction Contract, 2013 Edition