Geotechnical management on major infrastructure projects

Abstract

This paper presents the authors' personal views on how the management of geotechnical issues can have a significant influence on the planning, design and construction of major infrastructure projects. The need for continuity of geotechnical advice throughout the lifetime of the project is emphasised with a more holistic approach favoured in place of input on discrete elements such as site investigation, instrumentation and site monitoring. Forms of contract are encouraged which promote risk sharing and a more flexible approach to the assessment of uncertainties associated with ground conditions during design and construction. The authors also highlight, by reference to their own experience and other case histories, how important lessons can be learned for future projects from observation, interpretation and documentation of construction data.