Did you know that only one in three construction projects will stay within their projected budget and finish on time? For almost any gig, multiple moving parts could potentially cause overruns and schedule delays. And if history is any indicator, the longer a project goes, the more it’ll inevitably cost.
So, what are meaningful steps you can take to improve the efficiency of on-site contractors without negatively impacting the overall quality of the job?
Here are some tips.
#1 Plan, Plan, and Plan Again
The efficiency of any construction project lives or dies by thought-through strategy. Ideally, you want a detailed outline for every aspect of the project, and importantly, one that ensures the right contractors are where they need to be and when.
Armed with a clear timeline, a specific set of goals and objectives, and job assignments, each subcontractor can then act independently and with authority.
Knowing this, before you ever break ground, you must take the time to determine what elements are required to complete the project, including:
The subcontractors
The processes
Information
Equipment
Materials
#2 Master Real-Time Communication
Managing a single site can be a herculean feat. If you have to juggle multiple projects, it becomes that much more of a challenge. To ensure that everything is going according to plan and that contractors are fulfilling their duties as expected, you need seamless communication.
Project supervisors should meet in person or virtually with contracting crews daily to run through objectives, get feedback, and work through any potential issues. Contracting teams need to be informed about the project requirements, goals, and any relevant updates. Ideally, you should also outline performance metrics that make it easier to judge progress and reward good work.
#3 Embrace Technology
Various construction-related technologies can optimize a project and drive contractor efficiency. Tools like construction project management software make it possible to connect teams and project strategy so that those in charge of the project can make better, more timely decisions. Benefits of this type of technology include:
Closing the communication loop by capturing and managing all project communication
Providing stakeholders with the latest project details from a centralized location
Identifying potential issues that could impact the budget and schedule
The right digital technology could empower on-site contractors to work faster and more efficiently.
#4 Emphasize Worksite Safety
Even minor worksite injuries could cause significant project delays. And all it takes is a single accident to be suddenly embroiled in a legal, worker safety dispute.
You can reduce such issues, if not prevent them entirely, by stressing the importance of safety training. Doing so not only helps mitigate the frequency of work accidents but also helps instill a culture where contractor’s health and well-being are a priority.
Plus, when workers feel valued, they’ll be more likely to perform their jobs to the highest level.
#5 Hire Good Project Managers
Managing dozens of different subcontractors simultaneously can feel like wrangling cats. This is why it’s vital to hire a project manager who knows how to keep disparate crews accountable and on schedule—whether it’s enforcing start and end times for breaks, or ensuring that their assigned task is on pace.
MFS Construction—Ensuring that Every Job Is Done the Right Way
Are you looking for experts to help keep on-site contractors efficient and on task?
At MFS Construction, we’re a full-service general contracting firm that can handle whatever your specific project requires. We handle design and build project management, general contracts, and more.
Ready to break ground? Contact us today!