If there’s one thing that construction project managers know for certain, it is that nothing is for certain. Managing different types of projects or even two different projects of the same type will show that nothing is written in stone when it comes to construction. When a project is issued to a manager, there are certain things which need to be cleared up before everything is set in motion. The tricky part is that these factors can vary from project to project. However, it should be a part of the Construction Administration process to clear up any doubts that construction managers have that are present within the first few meetings.
Who is the Client?
At the very beginning, find out who you’re building this structure for. You may be talking to someone at the low-end of the business when you begin the project. You don’t want to be surprised when some bigwigs show up to tell you they want something different.
Who is the Audience for the Project?
It’s easy to forget that a construction project manager isn’t just handling a project for the client and the stakeholders but also for the audience that will be using the building. If you’re designing an apartment complex, think of the residents that it will house. If you’re building a stadium or a high rise, think of the people that will use it.
If your project allows for it, why not conduct a survey or look over research previously done on the topic. This research will allow you to focus on some key elements during the project’s lifetime.
What are the Potential Roadblocks?
This is one of the biggest doubts that construction managers have. It seems premature to start off the project by asking about the potential problems it may encounter. However, it’s a top priority to answer this question to prepare for any problems you may have so that you aren’t flustered when they occur.
Identifying potential roadblocks can help with the staffing, budget, timeline, and hiring processes. These will help better identify when the project is to be completed and how well it has to be financed to prevent any hiccups from stalling it.
What are We Expected to Deliver?
All the phases of the project should be clear as day. There should be a list provided to you at the beginning that includes all the major phases of the project to clear up some of these doubts. It also ensures that all the deliverables are within your understanding and capability. These include kickoff, content strategy, wireframes, design rounds (1-3), development, content input, testing, launch, and support.
What are We Not to Deliver?
Keep in mind that you may not be the only one working on the project. It is possible that you may have been asked to deliver certain aspects of the project while other parts are to be delivered by another company or a freelance contractor. Make sure you don’t have doubts about any obligations that you have.
Who is Involved in the Project?
Consulting your internal team isn’t a step that you should skip. Finding out if everyone is well-equipped to do this project can ease doubts that construction managers have about the project. Discuss any inhibitions with the team. Also, try to ascertain if there are people within the team who are specially qualified to do this project and how they can contribute to the overall planning and execution. Finally, find out if you need additional labor to complete the project. Finding out sooner rather than later is a boon in this industry.
Who is the Relevant Contact for This Project?
There will inevitably be some decisions you have to make during the project where you need to consult the stakeholders or the clients. For this situation, there should be someone who can answer on their behalf at all times. You don’t want to have doubts when consulting on critical decisions. Make sure you find your point of contact early on.
What are My Deadlines?
Most projects have deadlines, which is always a good thing. No open-ended projects should be taken by any construction manager. Deadlines allow you to know when a certain part or the entire project is to be completed. It’s in your best interest to ask when major portions of the project are to be completed. This will help with budgeting and scheduling.
What is the Benchmark for Success?
At times, there are loftier goals set for a project than just a beautiful high rise or a well-built structure. You may be commissioned to build something that will beautify the surrounding areas or provide affordable housing or even provide a place of recreational activity. So, find out what you’re to do before you seal the deal. It may all be there in black and white and the numbers may all be solid, but the client may be envisioning something ethereal that can’t be put on paper.
Has a Similar Project Been Executed Before?
If there is a blueprint for the project you are about to begin, it’s always a good idea to look it over. You can identify things that you’ll be able to do better, things that you wouldn’t have thought of, and things that may hinder the process altogether so you can be prepared for them.
Asking your stakeholders along with the clients and the internal team if they’re aware of any projects which you can take inspiration from is a great first step. This will save you time. It will also provide answers to a lot of lingering questions that you may have and even the ones you didn’t think to ask.
Construction project managers may require virtual assistance during the project at several key moments. This assistance can allow a smooth workflow and automate several repetitive tasks.
To get learn more about how Pickett Fence Virtual Services, can help you with project management, contact us today.
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