13. Before The Work Begins

Tuesday, 07 April 2026

The most important relationships on a project are often established long before the project officially starts.

In an age of email, Teams and virtual meetings, it is tempting to believe that communication and relationships are the same thing. They are not. Trust is built through conversations, shared experiences and the simple act of investing time in one another before it becomes necessary.

Drawing on experiences from major projects involving multiple organisations, suppliers and contractors, this essay explores the value of meeting people early, travelling to see them and understanding the people behind the job titles. Because when challenges inevitably arise, strong relationships provide something contracts and processes cannot: goodwill, understanding and a willingness to solve problems together.

The best projects do not begin with plans. They begin with people.