Learn key strategies for adjusting construction project schedules when facing unexpected material delivery delays to stay on track.

Facing material delivery delays in a construction project can be challenging, but with careful planning and flexibility, you can adjust the schedule to stay on track by using alternative materials. You have to work with architects, engineers, and suppliers to identify viable alternative materials that meet the project’s specifications and standards.

Last updated on Jul 11, 2024

Your construction project is facing material delivery delays. How can you adjust schedules to stay on track?

Facing material delivery delays in your construction project can be a major headache, but it's a reality of the industry. Such delays can disrupt schedules and inflate costs, but with the right strategies, you can mitigate these issues and keep your project on track. Adjusting schedules requires a proactive approach, focusing on flexibility, communication, and alternative planning. By understanding the challenges and employing effective problem-solving techniques, you'll be better equipped to handle the unexpected and maintain the momentum of your construction project.

1 Reassess Plans

When delays strike, take a step back to reassess your project plans. Examine the critical path of your schedule, which outlines the sequence of tasks that directly affect the project's finish date. Identify which tasks are dependent on the delayed materials and which can proceed. This might be the time to shuffle non-dependent tasks forward to make the most of the waiting period. Prioritizing tasks that don't require the delayed materials can help you minimize downtime and keep different aspects of the project moving.

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Fernando Pérez

Director of Data, Integration, and Artificial Intelligence | Talk about AI, Business Implementation and AI-first: from Mindset to Evolution
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I faced this situation when I was building a data center in British American Tobacco, what help us a lot was to start building what was possible with the material in place and identify how the critical path was affected. Based on that, we adjusted the release plan and negotiate with operations to confirm if new stops were acceptable.

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2 Engage Suppliers

Communication with your suppliers is key during a delay. Reach out to understand the cause of the delay and the expected time frame for resolution. Sometimes, suppliers may be able to expedite delivery or offer alternative solutions. Keep the dialogue open and transparent; this not only helps in managing current delays but also in preventing future ones. Building a strong relationship with suppliers means they'll likely be more willing to go the extra mile for you when challenges arise.

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Fernando Pérez

Director of Data, Integration, and Artificial Intelligence | Talk about AI, Business Implementation and AI-first: from Mindset to Evolution
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In the same data center construction, and after identify our critical path, some suppliers were able to prioritize at least the necessary and not all the material to reduce the impact on that critical path. Communication to every part of the project was key (Suppliers, Top Management, Operations, etc.)

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3 Optimize Resources

Look at your current resource allocation and find ways to optimize it. If certain workers or equipment were dedicated to tasks that are now on hold, redirect them to other areas where they can be effective. This might involve cross-training employees to perform different tasks or hiring temporary workers. The goal is to keep your workforce engaged and productive, even when specific materials are not available. Maximizing the use of your resources during delays can significantly reduce idle time and associated costs.

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Nick Avila

COO of MEA Construction | General Contractor based in NYC
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Reallocate workers and equipment to other tasks while waiting for delayed materials. Cross-train employees or hire temporary workers to ensure productivity continues. This approach minimizes idle time and keeps the project moving forward despite delays.

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Hany Elmancy, MSc, BSC, SFC, SSYB, PE, PMP, MBA

Senior Program Control | PMO Consultant | Planning & Project Control | Risk Manager | Delay Analysis Expert | Forensic Planner and claim specialist | Instructor | PMC-Senior Portfolio Controls | Public Speaker
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From my perspective in construction, optimizing the use of available resources can help maintain productivity during delays. This includes reallocating labor and equipment to tasks that are not affected by the delay. For example, deploying workers to other critical tasks or maintenance work can ensure that the workforce remains productive.

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4 Alternative Materials

Consider whether alternative materials could keep your project moving forward. While it's essential to maintain quality and adhere to specifications, there may be flexibility in certain areas. Discuss with your team and clients about possible substitutions that won't compromise the integrity of the project. Always ensure that any changes are documented and approved by all stakeholders to avoid miscommunication and ensure compliance with building codes and standards.

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Khalid Elsir

Civil Structural Engineer | Dubai Municipality G+12 Design Approved DM | Project Manager
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Facing material delivery delays in a construction project can be challenging, but with careful planning and flexibility, you can adjust the schedule to stay on track by using alternative materials. You have to work with architects, engineers, and suppliers to identify viable alternative materials that meet the project’s specifications and standards.

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Hany Elmancy, MSc, BSC, SFC, SSYB, PE, PMP, MBA

Senior Program Control | PMO Consultant | Planning & Project Control | Risk Manager | Delay Analysis Expert | Forensic Planner and claim specialist | Instructor | PMC-Senior Portfolio Controls | Public Speaker
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Based on my expertise in construction, exploring alternative materials that can be used temporarily or permanently can help keep the project on track. This requires careful evaluation to ensure that the alternatives meet the project's quality and safety standards. For example, substituting delayed materials with locally available alternatives can prevent work stoppages.

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5 Update Stakeholders

Keeping all stakeholders informed about delays and adjustments to the schedule is crucial. Regular updates foster trust and can help manage expectations. Use this opportunity to discuss potential impacts on the project timeline and budget, and work collaboratively to find solutions. Clear communication helps prevent frustration and keeps everyone aligned on the project’s progress and any changes that are being implemented.

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Nick Avila

COO of MEA Construction | General Contractor based in NYC
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Regularly inform all stakeholders about delays and schedule adjustments to maintain trust. Discuss the potential impacts on the project timeline and budget, and collaboratively find solutions. Clear communication helps manage expectations and keeps everyone aligned on the project’s progress and any changes implemented.

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Hany Elmancy, MSc, BSC, SFC, SSYB, PE, PMP, MBA

Senior Program Control | PMO Consultant | Planning & Project Control | Risk Manager | Delay Analysis Expert | Forensic Planner and claim specialist | Instructor | PMC-Senior Portfolio Controls | Public Speaker
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Reflecting on my construction experience, keeping all stakeholders informed about the delays and the steps being taken to address them is essential. This transparency helps manage expectations and maintain trust. For example, providing regular updates through meetings or reports can ensure that stakeholders are aware of the situation and the revised schedule.

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6 Contingency Planning

Finally, always have contingency plans in place for potential delays. This proactive measure involves identifying risk factors early on and developing strategies to address them if they occur. A well-thought-out contingency plan will include alternate suppliers, additional buffer time in the schedule, and financial reserves to handle unexpected costs. By preparing for the worst, you can ensure that your project remains resilient in the face of unforeseen challenges.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Your construction project is facing material delivery delays. How can you adjust schedules to stay on track?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Reassess Plans

2 Engage Suppliers

3 Optimize Resources

4 Alternative Materials

5 Update Stakeholders

6 Contingency Planning

7 Here’s what else to consider

Construction Management

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Your construction project is facing material delivery delays. How can you adjust schedules to stay on track?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Reassess Plans

2 Engage Suppliers

3 Optimize Resources

4 Alternative Materials

5 Update Stakeholders

6 Contingency Planning

7 Here’s what else to consider

Construction Management

Rate this article

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