The implementation of any construction project in the Far North conditions becomes successful with its rational design. The main factors in the design both in Russia and in foreign mills in the Far North are given. The article reveals the theoretical aspects of the contracting process and interaction with design institutes in the design of oil and gas production facilities. The main aspects of the framework agreement and effective use in commercial practice of such countries as the USA, Great Britain, France are shown. The main problems, as well as tools for effective work with counterparties, are given, as well as examples of analysis of the market of contractors, on the basis of which conclusions are drawn on interaction with a potential counterparty.

Keywords: oil and gas industry, construction, design and survey work, contractor, counterparty, tender, selection, oil and gas production facilities, SWOT analysis