An effective and smooth negotiation is one where both parties are on an equal footing in terms of access to information, technical expertise and an understanding of the available options.
A contract which is well-drafted, responsive to changing circumstances and fair to both parties is most likely to be sustainable and mutually beneficial to both parties.
Key Tools At This Stage
ResourceContracts.org, OpenLandContracts.org, Model Mining Development Agreement, NPV Model to Analyze Concessionary Arrangements, How to Understand Mining Contracts, How to Read and Understand Oil Contracts, The IISD Guide to Negotiating Investment Contracts for Farmland and Water