This unique introduction to contract administration is designed especially for those who need to understand the contract administration process overall (rather than the fine details) - and who have not yet developed a background of professional experience or insight. Using a simplified approach to a complex, evolving area, it provides an up-to-date overview of the entire process - including the general philosophy and rationale, and the roles, obligations, and responsibilities of all major participants in a construction project. Appropriate for all construction disciplines - e.g. architecture, engineering, construction management, construction - it focuses on those topics that cross several occupational lines and that are directly usable by any of the major project participants.* Does not require professional experience and insight. * Incorporates the latest techniques, configurations, and approaches used in the field. * Makes a clear distinction between contract administration and construction management: * Defines the contract administrator as one hired by an owner, but not part of the owner-contractor agreement, who oversees the dynamics of the project - assessing deviations from