Partnering is a commitment between government and industry to improve communications and avoid disputes. It is accomplished through an informal process with the primary goal of providing the sailor with quality supplies and services, on time, and at a reasonable price. Benefits of partnering include the establishment of mutual goals and objectives, building trust and open communications, eliminating surprises, anticipation and resolution of problems, avoidance of disputes through informal conflict management process. Partnering reduces paperwork, the time and cost of contract performance, and administration and oversight. It improves engineering efforts and safety. Finally, partnering focuses on the mutual interests of the parties involved improving morale and creating a harmonious business relationship.