You’re a construction manager who wants to avoid common mistakes. How can you ensure project success?

Imagine becoming part of a mastermind group of construction experts, where you can follow in the footsteps of those who have faced mistakes and challenges and emerged victorious. There is no better way to deal with problems than by gleaning from the wealth of knowledge and experience of others who have gone before you. Mistakes are common and can repeat themselves, but so too can their solutions. By studying and grasping the solutions that have worked for similar mistakes, you can effectively avoid common pitfalls that others have fallen prey to. Joining a community of learners can be a powerful way to stay ahead of the curve and achieve success.

In my experience in Construction field, the scope definition starts right at the pre-commence meeting . This is an opportunity to understand all people involved, assign responsibilities and set up expectations including project timeline

Defining the scope is challenging due to different stakeholders involved and project complexity. One way to manage it is to define it at very early stages of the project using a risk and benefits sharing approach among stakeholders. With this practice and a change management process in place, we settle the ground to align the team in the same path aiming less negative impact on the project, such as disputes and conflicts which will lead to poor quality, numerous issues, time and cost overrun. Using the right tools, combined with lessons learned from similar projects and subject matter experts advice, can help at scope definition effectiveness and efficacy towards a project success.

In any healthy relationship (romantic/platonic/professional) the 2 most important contributions are boundaries and accountability. A Scope of Work document provides heathy communication of expectations- boundaries set to give a clear understanding of responsibility. Without a scope, boundaries cannot be set, causing a failure in process or understanding. By establishing the responsibilities of each participating party, we create the framework for accountability to one another. If you don’t tell your husband/wife/partner that something is bad/good/expected, then you cannot hold them accountable for how it impacted your life. This philosophy translates directly into a client/contractor relationship.

Effective communication is essential for successful team management. Make sure to clearly communicate project objectives, expectations, and roles to team members. It is important that everyone understands their responsibilities, project milestones, and deadlines.

Among the various risks in Construction, the mains are risk of delays and overruns. While certain number of both and common in all projects, these two have the potential to make or break the project. Regular monitoring, site tours , analysis of Cost of complete are vital tools.

Controling the cost in a construction project start as early as the tendering stage. We realistically breakdown the cost of every activity into Manpower, equipment, material, OH&P. These tables will be the monitoring tool to iterate and compare the planned with the generated cost. Beware of small expenses like consumables and perishable items as it may sum up quicker than expected . Based on my experience, i would avoid project completion delay at any cost, since despite client's consent for concurrency the overhead generated by that period will dimish the actual profit.

Developing an effective communication management plan in order to involve all the relevant stakeholders. Therefore, a construction management project can be effective if one creates an environment whereby people can come up with different ideas that contribute to the success of the project.

Ensure project success as a construction manager by focusing on detailed planning, effective communication, and strong leadership. Implement quality control measures, manage risks, adhere to regulations, and strive for continuous improvement to avoid common mistakes and deliver successful projects.