Consultancy TENDERS & CONTRACTS It is vitally important that tender and contract documents are properly prepared to ensure that as far as possible no problems will arise which might for instance result in subsequent escalation of costs during build or the tender being protested as null and void by any company tendering. DMC&A are able to advise on or undertake the drafting of these documents. Most clients find that the detailed technical analysis of tenders difficult to comprehend without professional advice. In the case of Government and Local Authority clients it is vitally important to safe guard public money that the assessment of tenders is carried out professionally. SPECIFICATIONS It is only by carefully preparing a detailed specification that a vessel can be built to meet the requirements of the Client. Without professional advice at this stage, not only may the vessel finally built be unsuitable for the purposes intended, but the costs resulting from variations at later stages can be excessive. Past experience shows that a more satisfactory vessel is achieved with out input on the specification. MCA CODES OF PRACTICE DMC&A can undertake certification of vessels to the MCA Workboat Code and advise on code-related matters. Documents required such as stability books or structural assessments can be prepared. STABILITY ASSESSMENTS DMC&A has carried out many stability assessments both for stability information books and analysing particular problems including dynamic stability of fast vessels. Project vessels have ranged from RoRo ferries to small workboats. We can provide on-site analysis when circumstances require, such as during salvage operations. STRUCTURAL ASSESSMENTS DMC&A has long been involved in assessing and designing vessel structures and is able to analyse and report on a structure whether Steel, Aluminium alloy or GRP/FRP regarding its likely performance and compare it to the applicable standards. PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENTS If a vessel does not perform as desired either in speed, seakeeping characteristics, or other areas, DMC&A can analyse the problem and make recommendations on rectifications or improvements. The most frequently requested analysis is to specify an improved propeller design on vessels not achieving the desired speed. We frequently attend trials of new vessels and to advise on performance. From time to time disputes arise on vessel performance and an independent assessment of this or attendance to record the performance of the vessel for future information for the Master or Owners is vital. ADVICE ON VESSEL SUITABILITY Prior to purchasing a vessel, a client may require advice on the type of vessel suitable for their requirements. An analysis of the clients' particular requirements can be undertaken by DMC&A together with research of the market, resulting in suggestions of the types of vessels which might be contemplated to meet the particular requirements OPERATIONS PLANNING Whether planning a new operation or reassessing/restructuring an existing service, DMC&A can assist in making the most advantageous decisions by assessing significant factors such as safety and risks, efficiency, maintainability, reliability and cost-effectiveness.