Understanding and containing geotechnical risk

Ground-related problems remain the biggest cause of delays and cost overruns in civil engineering projects, suggesting that engineers still need a better understanding of the nature of geotechnical risk and how to contain it. This paper argues that engineers spend too much time attempting to minimise the design component of geotechnical risk when they have more control over project management aspects. Below-ground contract risk can also be better managed with more sensible arrangements between clients and constructors.