A construction project is dependent upon the decisions made and the plans formulated during its foundational preconstruction phase.
A properly executed preconstruction phase means better cost-efficiency, on-time project completion, and client satisfaction. Therefore, it’s of utmost importance to improve the processes involved in the preconstruction phase.
Technology and preconstruction software plays a central role in this. Consider platforms like ALICE, which streamline preconstruction processes by offering multiple alternative ways to build projects.
Regardless, here are some key considerations for the preconstruction process, which will help you lay a solid foundation for your construction project.
1. Make Sure you have Effective Communication
It’s important to understand, define, and properly communicate the core objectives of construction projects. A communication plan can be helpful in this regard.
All stakeholders involved in the project should have a very clear picture of the purpose of the project. Once project goals are communicated without any ambiguity, project implementation processes can be brainstormed and finalized.
In order to ensure all project details are passed on to different stakeholders in a crystal clear manner, you must have effective communication systems in place.
Fluid communications help with the quick resolution of problems while enhancing the quality of collaboration between different stakeholders.
Preconstruction meetings are an important aspect of preconstruction and set the direction of the project. Ensure there are no communication gaps and that all such meetings achieve their pre-planned agendas.
2. Establish Accountability Mechanisms
Clearly defined accountability mechanisms should be put in place during the preconstruction phase. If team members are not held accountable for the tasks they need to achieve, the project will suffer.
Everyone in the team should be given goals and deadlines, with a framework for strict adherence. Such an environment where importance is given to compliance will result in better performance. This will result in less needed rework and fewer cost overruns.
When assigning duties, make sure people understand what is expected from them. This needs to be done with diligent consideration, as it can play a pivotal part in success.
Milestones should be clearly defined and deadlines should be established.
3. Ensure Proper Budgeting
Budgeting is an important part of the preconstruction phase. It’s vital to have a good idea of the cost of local materials and other resources involved in a particular project.
Labor costs are also crucial to consider, and being familiar with local labor markets can assist you with picking out workers during the subcontractor bidding process.
Optioneering platforms can help in optimizing the budgeting process, recommending the best possible materials and how much labor will be needed for completion in adherence with certain timelines.
4. Make Sure you’re Complying with Local Ordinances
Getting local government permissions can be a painstaking process, but it has to be navigated properly so that there are no legal issues when executing the project.
Knowledge of local ordinances related to construction can help you in completing and filing all the necessary documents without errors.
Getting all the formalities fulfilled as soon as possible during the preconstruction phase will allow you to proceed with project execution quickly.
5. Ensure Proper Scheduling
Preconstruction is also the phase where scheduling is decided upon to properly reach milestones. Scheduling is an important part of project execution, as it provides the time frame for the completion of different tasks and subtasks.
Scheduling in the preconstruction phase also ensures there are no difficulties in project implementation and that all project processes are carried out in an appropriate manner.
6. Foresee Possible Problems and Identify Solutions
Construction projects can experience different bottlenecks. Identifying such issues and devising solutions during the preconstruction phase can help ensure the project runs smoothly.
For example, material shortages can put an abrupt halt to project progression. You should have backup channels through which you can source materials as quickly as possible so that the project can continue as planned. Having a list of vendors from whom you can easily and swiftly source the required materials can serve you well.
What-if scenarios and their possible solutions can be brainstormed during preconstruction meetings.
7. Consider Green Construction
As the climate crisis worsens, environmental-friendliness and sustainability are becoming key concerns, which is where green construction comes in.
Green construction is becoming popularized due to the benefits it offers for the environment and for building sustainability. An effort should be made to check the viability of green construction methodologies. Such evaluations can be made during the preconstruction phase for better environmental compliance.
Conclusion
Preconstruction is a phase where careful deliberations are needed so that all aspects of the project can be thoroughly examined and solid foundations can be established. When the preconstruction phase is properly carried out, you benefit from smoother project execution and more satisfied clients.
Also read: Pre-Engineered Steel Buildings: The Future of Agricultural Construction
