This article further talks about effective methods used in
construction management. In our last article we discussed about the
first 3 points of construction management, which were: never over
commit, plan in detail, always have a plan B. Today we will continue to
look at more tips and techniques of making a project successful through
the right planning.So here goes: Tip 4. Overconfidence! Overconfidence
is a huge problem and one of the main reasons why a lot of projects go
off track. The inexperienced construction manager when overconfident
will tend to take on more than he can handle. He will almost certainly
repeat the first mistake, which is over commitment and will also
overlook the second and third details, which are planning and options.
He will see no need to plan in detail and have a requirement for back up
options. We are only human and it is good know your limitations. When
in doubt over the outcome of a task, take out a pen and paper and jot
down the detailed sequence of events and plan accordingly. Plan for
delays and keep your options open.
Tip 5: Assumption. We have a habit of assuming that
things will be done. Well the truth is if it isn’t happening it wont
finish. Never assume that a task will be done. One of the most critical
mistakes a project manager makes is that he assumes that a certain
vendor would complete the task on the stipulated time. Don’t assume,
check if the activity is happening as per daily plan, if it isn’t or of
there is a delay ask the contractor to compensate by adding more people.
If more people aren’t available, involve option B and ask him to split
the work so it gets done.
Remember in the sequence of events if
one task is delayed the other task will inevitably get delayed and the
reaction will continue eventually leading to a delayed project. So it is
important again to check if activities are moving as per plan and if
not then to use options.
Tip 6: Don’t Trust Anyone: Even though
there are a lot of good folks out there, there are also people who over
commit and fleece. It is a sad truth about our trade but there is
nothing to worry this easy tip will take care of most problems when
applied properly. Always have things in writing. Before starting out any
task make sure the labor, sub contractor, material supplier or even a
client you’re dealing with know exactly what’s expected of them.
Be
it the performance of a task, to the makes and specifications of
materials being used, have everything in writing and that you both agree
on the terms laid down. Many a times while building a house people have
faced issues with contractors and vice versa, so this point is not just
for construction managers but also individual house owners.
As
you can see from this series of articles on construction management that
if these 6 points are kept in mind they can definitely improve the
projects outcome. They will lead to happier customers and a more relaxed
mind. You will be on control of the activities onsite and off site.
When things move off track you will have a plan to rectify it. This is
why construction management is such an important activity in today’s day
and age.