Also referred to as the design phase, preconstruction covers everything that happens before the construction commences. It is the preliminary stage before a single nail is hammered or a brick is laid.
Also referred to as the design phase, pre-construction covers everything that happens before the construction commences. It is the preliminary stage before a single nail is hammered or a brick is laid when the project is defined. In pre-construction, processes are mapped out, timelines established, teams appointed, risks identified and materials sourced. The preconstruction process can make or break the entire construction project.
An effective pre-construction process starts with a meeting between the client/stakeholder(s) and the general contractor or preconstruction manager and includes several key elements. Get these key preconstruction elements right and you are well on your way to completing a successful construction project.
What is the goal or objective of the project? What needs to happen to make the project a success?
The project scope defines what will be delivered at the end of the project. The project manager will complete a project scope document in the preconstruction stage of the project. It includes all the tasks, deliverables and outcomes of the work to be completed within the defined constraints of money (budget) and time.
The project scope does not have to be lengthy. However, it should be clear, concise and specific. It should include any possible limitations or exclusions (items considered 'out of scope'). There are many project scope templates online. It is important to get the scope right at the preconstruction stage. It ensures that stakeholders expectations are aligned. Letting stakeholders know precisely what will be created and how reduces the risk of the dreaded scope creep. Scope creep happens when additional items get added later, changes are made, and eventually, the budget, timeline and even the whole project can be derailed completely.
The well-defined project scope will save a lot of time, money and inconvenience as the project progresses.
Once the goal and objectives are identified, the construction team and design team will work with the project manager to prepare a budget for the project. The budget should include costs for the chosen materials and processes and, where possible, list alternative solutions and associated costs.
*Unsubscribe at any time
With the scope and budget defined, the team can progress with more detailed plans for the design, including; size, layout, style, materials, and systems. The design must be realistic and feasible within the defined budget.
With the scope, budget, and designs in place, the contractor can plan a schedule for the works to be completed. The contractor will estimate the number of days needed to complete each task, the order of tasks, and the expected completion dates. As the project progresses, details will be fine-tuned and, many of these dates will change. However, the preliminary schedule can be presented to the client during preconstruction to give a rough idea of how long the project will take.
For successful preconstruction, it is advisable to complete a detailed responsibility matrix. This is a document that outlines key responsibilities and deliverables expected from all parties involved. It details who is responsible for what, what suppliers will be delivering what items or materials, and who will be handling each phase of the installation. This is a key document in a good preconstruction process as it holds each member accountable. Say, the timber hasn’t arrived on time. The responsibility matrix should list who was responsible for arranging the delivery and the supplier's details. With this information in hand, issues can be escalated or sorted efficiently.
It should go without saying that any construction project requires a thorough risk assessment. All permits, permissions, and inspection requirements must be met before the project breaks ground. If there are existing components on-site, the contractor must assess the conditions of these components, such as HVAC systems, plumbing, and electrics, and recommend if items need to be updated or replaced to perform optimally in the new build. Preconstruction is the time to get these important documents right to mitigate risks during construction.
Preconstruction is all about preparation. A diligent preconstruction process helps confirm that the project is feasible and that the client's expectations are realistic. It will reduce the risk of setbacks along the way and increase the likelihood of a successful construction project.
*Unsubscribe at any time
Accelerate your Preconstruction Career while earning a competitive salary with a Top Ranked ENR General Contractor
Apply for Construction Estimator JobsWe work with the Top 10% of Preconstruction Talent across the United States and can deliver this talent to you in 4-6 weeks
Post a job
