"My Way or the Highway..." Major Disputes on Construction Projects Are Often a Result of Simply Misinterpreting Workers Personality Traits and Work Styles.

Personality conflicts are at the root of construction litigation 97% of the time. Now an innovative on-line assessment reveals the personalities and work styles of project team members as a way to build cohesive teams and avoid miscommunication. Designed for the industry, the test can be accessed at www.ConstructionStyles.com

(PRWEB) September 29, 2003 --When Sue Dyer holds a dispute resolution session for a construction project, millions of dollars are typically on the line. Over the past 20 years, Dyer has been called in countless times to make peace for the likes of Caltrans, BART and the state of California. She has seen major projects come to a standstill over misinterpretations of contract wording or even something as minor as who is responsible for paying a $200 electricity bill. No matter what the issue seems to be, the conflict between the parties results in a breakdown in communication. The bottom line is a project in turmoil. What has she learned from her work? She states emphatically, Personality conflicts are at the root of construction litigation 97% of the time."

Understanding the personality styles-or in this case the work styles-of team members on a construction project is just as important as knowing what is on their resume. Dyer can recognize the personality styles of people within moments of meeting them. It is a learned skill, but she says anyone can put this sort of personality analysis to use on the job, as well.

Dyer used her considerable expertise and experience to create a unique personality and work style assessment called ConstructionStyles.com. The on-line assessment is geared specifically to the construction industry and offers project team leaders the insight needed to help their project teams work more effectively and harmoniously. The site has only been in existence since August, but it is already being hailed as a way to steer the industry toward better communication and away from litigation.
ConstructionStyles.com is based on empirical research known as DiSC, so named for the main personality types: Dominant, Interactive, Steady and Compliant. Each type has its own strength and weaknesses on the job, and almost everyone is a combination of these four traits. After answering a series of questions, a detailed report is sent to the test taker for their own use. The real value comes when individuals share their styles" with their team.

The ConstructionStyles.com assessments are simple to take and the detailed reports are easy to understand and implement. Since the easy-to-use assessment is taken via the Internet, the results are available quickly. The assessments can be purchased individually or in bulk for a project team or an entire company. Dyer also offers a team evaluation" where she will evaluate the results of several team members and compile an in-depth plan for optimum results.

Personality assessments may be new to the construction industry but Dyers company, OrgMetrics, has used personality assessments over the years as a way to build leadership, improve communication, and ultimately make clients more profitable. She sites an example of one client, a Bay Area executive, who keeps the assessments of his key people in his top drawer. He refers to it before crucial meetings in order to communicate most effectively. Its not the issues that decide the success of your project," says Dyer. Its how your project team works together to resolve each issue."

For more information on the assessments or to take the test immediately, go to www.ConstructionStyles.com. The International Partnering Institute provides information and programs to promote partnering, team building and leadership within the construction industry. The website at www.partneringinstitute.com offers access to articles, a free assessment test, products and useful tools to promote partnering. For more information, contact Barbara Santos at (925) 449.8300 or barbarasantos@orgmet.com.
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