The FIDIC (Fédération Internationale des Ingénieurs-Conseils) forms of contract are used extensively throughout the world to further the aims of the construction industry at large. In both the developed and the developing world they play a crucial role in ensuring that project objectives are satisfactorily achieved. In a perfect world, projects are completed on time and on budget, affording the beneficiaries the advantages of the designed project. As long as contracting is the modus operandi, such a scenario can only occur through efficient and effective use of those contracts. Quality contract administration is of paramount importance. Numerous books have been written on this subject with the aftermath of contractual conflict in mind. Such books dwell on the methods by which disputes can be resolved, with emphasis placed on the legal aspects of contract administration. The FIDIC Quick Reference Guide takes a different approach. Rather than solving a problem after the conflict has occurred, this series of books and associated electronic aids set out how to prevent the problem from occurring in the first place.The FIDIC Quick Reference Guide series: • concentrates on two issues: what to do and when to act • establishes a simple sub-clause by sub-clause format to enable easy referencing • designed to be used alongside the project’s contract form • provides a quick overview of the actions to be taken and the time in which to take such actions. FIDIC Quick Reference Guide: Red Book provides a valuable tool for practitioners who are either preparing or using the contract form, as it directs the user through this minefield of directly, or often implied, cross-referenced sub-clauses.