NEC Contracts has launched NEC Digital, an intuitive online contract drafting platform that transforms how users work with the internationally recognised NEC suite of contracts.

Built on the foundational principles of clarity, simplicity and collaboration, NEC Digital provides seamless access and management capabilities, unites stakeholders together on a single, online platform and creates comprehensive digital libraries of clauses and terms for future projects.

More than just a digital version of paper contracts, NEC Digital is a new subscription-based service designed specifically around the needs of clients, contractors, consultants and project teams. The platform fundamentally transforms collaborative contracting operations by combining intuitive ease of use with comprehensive functionality, enabling more widespread adoption of collaborative practices across the industry

Key features and capabilities

Guided Contract Setup: NEC Digital provides intelligent contract configuration that allows users to select main and secondary clauses tailored to project requirements. The platform's side-by-side view of options and relevant clauses makes contract navigation intuitive and efficient, while contextual drafting guidance ensures informed decision-making throughout the process.

Comprehensive Contract and Z Clause Library: The platform contains all main options (A to F), a full range of secondary clauses, and a comprehensive personalised Z clause library built from users’ previously drafted clauses. Features include automatic dispute option selection (W1-W3) and intelligent clause compatibility checking that prevents the selection of incompatible clauses during drafting, reducing errors and potential disputes while enhancing quality assurance.

Enhanced Collaboration Tools: NEC Digital streamlines collaboration by bringing all stakeholders together on a single platform with multi-access points for different team members, suppliers, and contractors. Robust permission controls ensure only authorised personnel can view and edit documents, maintaining complete version integrity throughout the project lifecycle.

Secure Tender Management: During the tender process, when Contract Data 1 is generated, bidders can access a secure environment through a simple link. The platform provides the same interactive guidance to ensure high-quality submissions from all parties, whilst the clause navigator and Contract Data 2 bid flow offer complete visibility of all contractor-selected clauses and their exact parameters.

The launch comes at a critical junction for the construction sector, where collaborative contracting has demonstrated significant benefits including cost reduction, improved efficiency, minimised disputes and enhanced sustainability outcomes. Recent research from NEC Contracts revealed that 82% of industry professionals feel positively about more widespread adoption of collaborative contracts, recognising the substantial benefits that such contracts can deliver.

Rekha Thawrani, OBE and Global Director at NEC Contracts said: “With the industry evolving rapidly and facing multiple challenges, paper-based contract processes are no longer sufficient for today's complex, multi-stakeholder projects. NEC Digital transforms the contracting process and brings the NEC suite into the digital age with an efficient, transparent and intuitive approach, offering users the confidence and assurance of the highest quality contract outcomes.”

As a future ready solution, NEC Digital makes collaborative contracting faster, simpler and more accessible. The platform delivers comprehensive guidance throughout the contracting process, contextual support for decision-making, and enhanced tools for teamwork and collaboration, positioning organisations for success in an increasingly digital construction landscape. To find out more visit www.necdigital.com/digital.