Understanding the Importance of Preconstruction Services
In this blog, we dive into preconstruction services—why they’re essential, what they entail, and how they set projects up for success. If you’re involved in construction or project management, this step is a game-changer. As Bent Flyvbjerg and Dan Gardner put it in How Big Things Get Done, “Projects don’t go wrong; they start wrong.” Here, we’ll cover the core steps of preconstruction to ensure your project starts and finishes smoothly.
What Are Preconstruction Services?
Preconstruction services are the strategic efforts by a construction manager or construction manager at risk (CMAR), who essentially becomes the general contractor for a project, executing it under a guaranteed maximum price (GMP). These services are about more than basic planning; they’re crucial for aligning the project’s design, client goals, and timeline while maintaining quality, safety, and budget integrity. Think of preconstruction services as crafting a recipe for success—one that’s more than just ingredients but a complete blueprint.
Key Elements of Preconstruction Services
- Project Planning
Preconstruction starts with thorough project planning, which includes creating a master schedule and production plan. Key tasks here involve logistics planning, zone mapping, budgeting (both for subcontractors and general requirements), and constructability reviews. This stage anticipates and addresses possible issues before construction begins, setting up a solid foundation. - Budgeting & Cost Estimation
Real-time budgeting and cost estimation are essential to keep a project financially on track. Leveraging lean practices, target value delivery aligns the design with a stipulated maximum budget, allowing a seamless experience for the client while keeping costs in check. - Site Analysis
Site analysis examines factors like topography, soil conditions, zoning regulations, and environmental impacts that could shape the design. Conducting a thorough analysis, either in-house or with consultants, is crucial to prevent surprises down the line. - Design Development
Design development advances from schematic design to construction documents (CDs). Here, the construction team collaborates closely with designers to keep the project on budget and schedule, aligning with regulations and the client’s functional and aesthetic vision. - Value Engineering
Value engineering is about maximizing design value without overspending. This collaborative effort explores new technologies and methods to deliver a quality experience that meets functional and aesthetic goals without unnecessary costs. - Permitting & Approvals
Navigating permits and approvals is a vital part of preconstruction, often involving collaboration with regulatory bodies to secure necessary permissions. Familiarity with the permitting process can streamline timelines and prevent costly delays. - Risk Management
Identifying potential risks for both the construction team and client is essential. This includes evaluating risks related to design, financial commitments, development, construction, and maintenance. Strong risk management prevents setbacks and protects the project’s long-term success. - Project Scheduling
Scheduling aligns the design teams and overall project’s timelines. A well-structured schedule ensures coordination across production, quality, safety, and budget, all contributing to the project’s final success. - Procurement Management
Procurement management handles the acquisition of essential materials, such as exteriors, elevators, and specialty items. This step ensures these items are ordered early, avoiding delays due to missing materials and keeping the project on time. - Stakeholder Management
Effective stakeholder management includes coordinating efforts, managing timelines, and removing obstacles to keep the design and construction teams in sync. Regular communication and tracking of needs ensure a smooth workflow and minimal delays.
Final Thoughts
Investing in preconstruction services isn’t an optional add-on; it’s a strategic move with long-term payoffs. Proper upfront planning can significantly mitigate the risks of budget overruns, delays, and quality issues. As this blog has outlined, the comprehensive steps of preconstruction services—from budgeting to scheduling and risk management—are key to a successful project.
Preconstruction services set up the “recipe” for success. Following these steps ensures that your project has the foundation it needs, leading to a smoother and more predictable construction phase. Incorporate these elements into your next project plan to help ensure that your project is ready to go right from the start.
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