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Industry Glossary Term

Alternative Delivery Models

Contracting arrangements beyond traditional lump-sum or day-rate structures, such as alliance, integrated project delivery, or performance-based contracts. These models shift how subcontractors are engaged, paid, and held accountable for outcomes. Understanding them helps field service firms assess risk, pricing strategy, and scope responsibilities before signing.

Related Terms

AGC (Associated General Contractors of America)

Industry

A U.S. trade association representing general contractors in construction. Subcontractors working with AGC members often encounter standardised contract templates and safety compliance expectations tied to membership. Knowing AGC standards helps subs align bids and prequalification documents with GC requirements.

BIM (Building Information Modelling)

Industry

A shared 3D digital model of a construction project that contains structural, mechanical, and site data. Subcontractors use it to coordinate work sequences, avoid clashes with other trades, and verify installation specs before mobilising. Access to the BIM model is often required before entering a worksite.

Inactive Well

Industry

A wellbore that is not currently producing or being actively operated, but has not been formally abandoned. Subcontractors may be hired for monitoring, maintenance, or eventual reclamation work on these sites. Regulatory requirements around inactive wells vary by province and can affect scope and timeline.

Early-Works

Industry

Preliminary site preparation activities awarded before a project's main contract is finalised. For subcontractors, this means mobilising early—often under a letter of intent—to handle clearing, grading, or utility work. Scope and payment terms can be limited, so review your agreement carefully before committing resources.

Pad Program

Industry

A multi-well drilling campaign where several wells are drilled from a single surface location. For subcontractors, it means extended continuous work with predictable scheduling across sequential well builds. Expect high mobilisation value but tight coordination between crews and trades.

Sources Sought

Industry

A notice issued by a client or prime contractor to identify qualified subcontractors before a formal tender is released. Responding helps get your company on the bidders list. It is not a contract offer, but skipping it can mean missing the actual bid.

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