Over the course of the past few years, the construction industry has witnessed unprecedented volatility and price changes, several of which were directly related to the COVID-19 supply chain and productivity.
Now, to b e clear, a construction manager (CM) has no control over the supply chain during a pandemic or other major forces that can derail a project. But fortunately, pandemic-like forces that rattle the industry have been relatively rare up until now. Thankfully, a CM with good problems-solving skills can do wonders to mitigate the most frequent issues that come up during construction.
To be sure, construction management work is still complex and demanding. But with adequate preparation and experience a CM can resolve things that often trigger set backs, such as poor communication, safety concerns, time management, among others We've picked 5 common problems to discuss today and suggest helpful ways to resolve them.
Budget Limitations
Budget limitations are a frequent challenge in construction projects. It is not uncommon for construction projects to go over budget, leading to financial strain and potential delays. To manage budget limitations effectively, construction managers need to set realistic expectations for cost overruns and make adjustments to accommodate unforeseen expenses. Regular monitoring of the budget and proactive communication with stakeholders can help identify potential issues early on and allow for appropriate adjustments to be made.
Poor Communication
Effective communication is essential for the smooth running of any construction project. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, delays, and costly errors. To overcome this challenge, construction managers must establish clear communication channels and ensure that all team members are aware of their roles and responsibilities. Regular project updates, meetings, and the use of communication tools can facilitate effective communication and help prevent potential issues.
Lack of Structure
A lack of structure can hinder the progress of a construction project. Without clear targets and work responsibilities, team members may struggle to stay focused and productive. Leadership anyone? Yes, it's the CM's job to be at the helm from day one, guiding, instructing, setting the tone, and in terms of structure, creating a clear project structure with well-defined tasks and deadlines. A skillful CM breaks down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks and easy-to-follow systems to create a sense of structure and accountability within the project team.
Unrealistic Expectations
Clients and stakeholders may have inflated aspirations or unreasonable expectations for the project, such as accelerated schedules or limited budgets. These unrealistic expectations can put pressure on the CM and the project team. It is crucial for the CM to communicate the potential challenges and limitations to stakeholders. By managing expectations and fostering open communication, CMs can mitigate the impact of unrealistic demands on the project.
Inadequate Risk Management
Risk management is a critical aspect of construction project management. Failure to identify and address potential risks can lead to costly delays and safety issues. CMs should conduct thorough risk assessments and develop contingency plans to mitigate potential risks. Regular monitoring of project risks and proactive problem-solving can help project managers handle unforeseen challenges effectively.
How Has Concore Problem Solved on Its Recent Projects? Learn more.