2 September 2010 | Philip Dews

By Charles Boundy, Gower, £70

4 out of 5

The title is far from exciting, but this book is exactly that: a business contracts handbook. An easy-to‑read reference guide, it is ideal as a handy desktop aid, both for procurement professionals and those with a wider business remit. It is not an academic textbook and is best used by those with knowledge of contract law.

Weighing in at more than 400 pages, the book uses the space wisely to cover contract formation and the basics before moving on to contract law. It then goes on to discuss some more specialised contracting scenarios, including technology, intellectual property and outsourcing. Although these areas are not covered in fine detail, they provide a useful starting point for anyone about to embark on a project in these areas.

The book finishes with a useful section entitled The Wider World, Changes and Breakdowns, which provides information and guidance on international legislation, problem contracts and termination of contracts.

There is also a Stop Press! section that contains some very useful commentary on recent cases that are shaping contract law.

The appendices also provide a helpful and handy source of reference.

This book is well constructed and contains a wealth of very useful information. But with a £70 price tag I find it hard to justify “value for money” criteria, and even the digital version costs £49.

Despite this, I would recommend this book as a useful reference guide for purchasing professionals.

Philip Dews

Contracts manager, Interserve Support Services