Construction projects have a bad reputation for taking twice as long as expected and costing twice as much. While this is understandable given fluctuating material costs and unforeseen site challenges, it may be extremely damaging to your reputation and bottom line! Fortunately, there are several safeguards you can take to help you stay on schedule and on budget: Incorporate a schedule within the contract.

We assume you construct a timetable for each project, but if you don't, this step will make a tremendous impact because it will help you set a realistic deadline and budget right away. The estimated dates for each step allow everyone to see the bottleneck that occurs when even one step is delayed, as well as any concerns that you might have overlooked otherwise. By including it in the contract, you and your partners will be held more accountable, and everyone will take deadlines more seriously.

Check and double-check your calculations.

To avoid any surprises, confirm the construction expenses before signing the contract. Spend extra time going over your timetable step by step. There will be unforeseen circumstances, therefore budget for a 10%-20% increase in materials costs, as well as a modest time buffer for unexpected events.

Create a good communication system.

The site should, ideally, have a continuous line of communication or link to the office. The onsite crew and the office will benefit from a smooth flow of updates, reports, and other information, which will reduce errors and increase constructive collaboration. Collecting data from the field is critical, and keeping everyone informed in a timely manner can help to avoid delays and overruns. Make use of data-gathering digital tools.

Construction is one of the least digitized industries, so if your team can rely on digital data, you'll have a significant edge. The best construction software will provide changes to your team's mobile devices in real-time. You and your team will be able to be as dynamic as needed by being able to update the project with weather reports, timetable modifications, and a site diary. Keeping track of your employees' time can also help you create and manage your budget.

Keep an eye on your timetable and schedule.

It may seem self-evident, but check and monitor how each activity is progressing on your timetable from beginning to end. When done correctly, you'll be able to discover which errors and delays are likely to cause the project to be delayed or cost more than expected, allowing you to make up time or money elsewhere.

Pay close attention to the small things.

When seemingly insignificant expenses and tasks mount up, project creep occurs. Plan ahead of time to ensure you have all of the materials and tools you'll need on any given day. Make timely decisions and keep your communication updates brief. And, if at all feasible, work under budget and ahead of schedule to compensate for minor errors and setbacks.

The correct individuals should be hired and trained.

Craftsmen who have previously worked on similar projects should make up a component of your crew. Their input will be critical in keeping the project on schedule. Even the most seasoned workers will require some training on any software or communication processes, so schedule time to prepare the team for any digital tools they'll be utilizing, the construction process and strategy, as well as a review of construction materials and safety education.

Madden Industrial Staffing is here to assist you to discover the qualified craftsmen you need to ensure fewer mistakes and faster production. Give us a call today, and we'll put you in touch with craftspeople who have the experience and training you require!