Geotechnical News • March 2016
57
GEO-INTEREST
techniques tempered with expe-
rience-based judgement. To the
extent possible, liaise with parties
who will use the report data, e.g.
Owner, Designer, Contractor, etc.
Check and recheck terminology.
Include carefully considered con-
clusions and, only where clearly
appropriate, make a qualified rec-
ommendation by providing a range
of solutions with a corresponding
degree of risk, from the stand-
point of the geotechnical factors
involved. To the extent possible,
follow up with the end users.
ix. Checking and Review: The value of
this at all levels cannot be over-
emphasized. A good internal
review policy is important, as is
independent peer review where
warranted. However, checking and
review at the levels where factual
data is generated and analytical
work is carried out, is fundamen-
tal.
x. Administrative Factors: In the con-
text of running a business, these
are obviously important. So are
aspects of staff training and techni-
cal issues such as establishing
standards, operating manuals, etc.
xi. Potential Problems: Exercise
preventative vigilance. Ensure
prompt, constructive attention if
they occur.
xii. Alternate Dispute Resolution
Methods: Know them and encour-
age their inclusion in contractural
arrangements.
xiii.
Expert Evidence: If involved,
obviously be well-prepared not
only in terms of the technical
aspects, but also in how to com-
municate effectively in a litigation
setting. Be fair and objective.
xiv.Continuous Learning: Stay abreast
of developments and diversify ex-
perience. But also remember that
applied geotechnical engineering
is a service. It is only successful if
the project to which it is applied
is successful. Therefore learn to
cooperate with the other parties
involved to achieve this objective.
Acknowlegements
The Authors gratefully acknowledge
the many organizations and individu-
als whose projects and assistance over
the years have provided the experience
on which this paper is based. Spe-
cific mention is given to those where
project data is quoted herein, includ-
ing Russell Township, Ontario; Public
Works Canada and Ontario Depart-
ment of Highways (now Ministry of
Transportation, Ontario). Thankful
acknowledgment is also made to the
authors of various published articles
which have been drawn upon herein.
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