How to Manage a Construction Schedule & Costs
Delays and cost increases are the main causes of unresolved disagreements between a project's owner and its contractor. A contractor can correct shoddy workmanship and replace defective materials. He cannot replace lost time or recover increased costs generated by a delayed project. While nothing will guarantee a problem-free project, a construction schedule using the proper construction management software can provide an early warning system to manage progress and control expenses.
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Instructions
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How to Schedule a Construction Schedule and Costs
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Choose a construction management software program with a construction schedule format that's appropriate for the size, complexity and cost of the project. There are many to choose from and managing too much information will be as confusing as too little.
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Assemble all components of the construction schedule using the software. Typical input will include:
-Critical events in the construction process, including issuance of a building permit, inspections by local building officials and reviews by a construction lender
-Building materials required and their proposed delivery dates.
-Specific tasks, sequence and duration for each component of the work.
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Personalize the project schedule to closely match your company's capabilities in any way that they differ from industry norms. Computer software makes regional assumptions that may not mirror your specific circumstance.
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Use the prepared construction schedule regularly. Maintaining a schedule is the most critical component in controlling costs. A formal, weekly check of progress is a good rule of thumb. Confirm that the work performed on site during each previous week matches the work described in the construction schedule. Confirm that critical events scheduled, construction materials required and necessary tradesmen are available for the next week as planned.
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Record variances in actual performance versus project schedule to increase accuracy in estimating future projects. Managing a schedule does not begin or end with a single project.
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Tips & Warnings
The more complex the building project, the more important a detailed construction schedule becomes.
Consider hiring a professional construction managers if the project's size or complexity is beyond the scope of your company's typical project.
Include the construction schedule with contract documents. This will ensure that both the contractor and the owner have similar expectations.
Consider avoiding highly-specialized building materials with limited availability. Late deliveries can delay an entire project.
