NEMA Management’s Post

Capital projects have become so incredibly complex with process, jurisdictions, stakeholders, program, quality, budget and schedule sensitivity. Every owner needs someone on their side organized and driving efficiently with confidence to avoid costly mistakes.

How do I ensure that my construction projects run smoothly? Hiring project managers and licensed trades and contractors to perform the work is key. We are seeking freedom by investing in real estate, not a second job. Always plan to hire out the work and your deals will always make sense. #projectmanagement #timemanagement #ontariorealestate #realestateinvesting #realestateinvestor #investmentproperty #contractorlife #kitchenerwaterloo

In today’s construction industry, labor shortages are significant challenges for contractors, developers, and project managers. With increasing demand for skilled workers and a shrinking talent pool, addressing these shortages requires strategic planning and innovative solutions. Let’s explore effective strategies for success in overcoming these obstacles and ensuring project continuity.

Securing new job leads in the construction industry is increasingly challenging as price becomes the dominant factor in decision-making. Many project owners and general contractors are prioritizing bids that come in under budget, often overlooking the long-term benefits of hiring experienced professionals. This emphasis on cost-cutting can lead to compromises in workmanship, delays, and higher long-term maintenance costs, as lower bids might result in inferior quality. For skilled contractors and tradespeople, this price-driven landscape forces them to lower bids to stay competitive, which can undermine the quality of materials or work. The pressure to reduce costs threatens the overall integrity of projects and diminishes the value of craftsmanship. It becomes a balancing act between maintaining high standards and staying competitive in a market where the lowest price often wins the contract. To navigate this reality, it's crucial to communicate the long-term value of experience and quality. Building a strong reputation through positive testimonials, a portfolio of successful projects, and a proven track record of meeting deadlines without sacrificing standards can set you apart. While price is a significant factor, those who can effectively demonstrate the true worth they bring to a project will have a better chance of securing meaningful opportunities. #xsbuildingservices

What are some common building construction delivery methods? Design, Bid, Build. Or abbreviated DBB, which is  is one method of construction delivery. In this method, design for the building is completed and documented. Then Contractors are asked to bid or tender on the contract documents to formulate a price for the building’s construction. After one of the tenders/bids is accepted (normally, but not always, the lowest bid), one of the bidding general contractors is awarded the construction phase, which then begins. This method of construction is popular and works well when the entire process is understood and used appropriately. Another delivery method is called Construction Management Construction Management is a variant of the traditional Design, Bid, Build construction delivery method. Here, the owner hires a construction manager earlier than or soon after the design consultant team. Hiring the construction manager early may aid the owner in the process of hiring design consultants. A construction manager typically has a strong background in either the building design professions or general contracting. Some companies may perform construction management as part of other construction services such as design or general contracting. The construction manager’s function is like a general contractor’s management in the Design, Bid, Build process. In a Construction Management delivery method, there is no need or expectation for a general contractor as the construction manager takes this role. 

Let's take the example of building a new community center as a project managed by a construction manager. Here's how it unfolds: **Pre-Construction Phase:** 1. **Planning and Design:** The project manager works with architects, engineers, and the client to finalize the design plans, permits, and budget. They create a detailed breakdown of all the tasks involved, called a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS). 2. **Bidding and Procurement:** Contractors for various aspects of the project (foundation, framing, electrical, etc.) are selected through a bidding process. The project manager negotiates contracts and secures material procurement. **Construction Phase:** 3. **Scheduling and Resource Allocation:** The project manager creates a detailed construction schedule, outlining the sequence of tasks and assigning durations for each. They allocate resources like workers, equipment, and materials to ensure everything is available when needed. 4. **Monitoring and Control:** The project manager constantly monitors progress against the schedule and budget. They identify potential delays or cost overruns and take corrective actions, such as adjusting the schedule or finding alternative materials. 5. **Communication and Collaboration:** The project manager acts as the central point of communication between the client, architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors. They hold regular meetings, update everyone on progress, and address any concerns. 6. **Quality Control:** The project manager ensures that the construction adheres to quality standards and building codes. They work with inspectors and conduct quality checks throughout the process. **Post-Construction Phase:** 7. **Completion and Handover:** Once construction is complete, the project manager oversees final inspections and obtains necessary approvals. They ensure everything meets the agreed-upon specifications before handing over the completed community center to the client. **Additional Responsibilities:** * **Safety:** The project manager prioritizes safety by implementing safety protocols and ensuring workers have proper training and equipment. * **Risk Management:** They identify and mitigate potential risks that could impact the project's schedule, budget, or quality. By effectively managing these tasks, the construction project manager ensures the community center is built on time, within budget, and according to plan.

Hey General Contractors! I'm going to drift out of my lanes a bit - and talk to you! As an experienced Facilities Manager, who has participated in a lot of construction projects - I think the handoff from construction to owners is a huge untapped area for improvement. Improvement that can be value-adds, improvement that can make you different than other construction companies, improvement that can make you even more popular with building owners, occupants and Facilities Managers! I get that materials advance, project management continues to improve, design and construction methodologies continue to evolve - but how much is changing in the world of building turnovers?? Ooooooh - the FM gets his stuff on an I-Pad... Ohhhhh what used to be a dozen binders is now on a thumb drive..... but seriously - there is sooo much that can still be done! And dont even get me started on the same company providing facilities services as the one that built the building (who knows the building better??) - not many companies do that well, but they could. The turnover of a building to the owners (usually the FM and his/her staff) - is the culmination of your efforts! The crowning achievement! Your baby is now going to walk! This should be the most exciting and fruitful part of the project but it is usually done at best as a routine process, at worst as an afterthought. The company is ready to move on to the next project, the staff has project fatigue, and let's face it - building buildings is your company's expertise - not operating them. There are tons of opportunities here, but few companies try to capitalize on this part of the process. As someone who has spent over two decades in both worlds, I'm happy to have a discussion on what can be done better. Reach out, let's chat. #construction #buildings #generalcontractors #design #turnover #handoff #buildingowners #processimprovement #OandM #operations #maintenance #facilitiesmanagement #facman #fm #asbuilts #gc #contractors

When I read this article, I thought, "This describes 2024!" https://lnkd.in/eR57Henq Construction Dive is spot on with this and we see it all the time. While some of these issues can be out of our control, I think it is important to focus on what we CAN control from day to day (and project to project). Don't complain about what isn't working. Focus on what you CAN DO to create the change you are looking for! For anyone reading this, do not let supplemental staffing support pop up on your list of things causing delays for your projects. Planning, collaborating and creating manpower solutions is probably the favorite part of my role at Aerotek. Please reach out if you can use our help! Joe jkrapf@aerotek.com

Understand Local Regulations and codes Embarking on a construction project is an exciting venture, yet it comes with its fair share of legalities that can significantly impact the progression and success of your endeavor. One of the critical steps in preparing for your build is to thoroughly understand and comply with local regulations. Here is what you can do 1. Begin your project by looking into the local building regulations specific to your area. This proactive approach can save you from costly and time-consuming revisions down the line. 2. Seek out information from Local planning websites and publications for an overview of the local requirements in your area. 3. Consider Professional Help. Hiring an architect or a project manager who is well-versed in the local regulations can be a game-changer. They can handle the legwork of obtaining permits and ensure that your plans comply with all local, state, and federal laws, allowing you to focus on the broader aspects of your project. Please like, share, and follow ....... #Architecture #ProjectManagement #ProjectManagement #ProjectPlanning #ProjectLeadership #ProjectDelivery