Overcoming Challenges in a Construction Project
Nothing in life is perfect but it’s all in how you handle it. It’s no different when dealing with a construction project, whether it be a commercial or residential project. As an owner, you are going to be presented challenges and obstacles along the way, but if you know how to overcome them, then you are half way there. It also is recommended to find trusted partners (architects, engineers, contractors, builders, HVAC suppliers, electricians, painters, and the list goes on) to work with on your project. This is important to the completion of a successful project.
Remember that every project has its challenges, so you must be aware of that. It’s how the contractor overcomes these challenges that makes them the right choice for you. If the contractor tells you they have never experienced a challenge or a problem, they are probably lying to you so move onto the next contractor. The contractor should be able to tell you about the challenges and how they overcame them in detail. Don’t worry about perfection but there is no such thing as a perfect contractor, perfect builder, or a perfect project. We are all human and make mistakes, but it’s how those are handled that sets a contractor apart.
The lines of communication should be open and honest. You should feel comfortable talking to your project team about anything dealing with your project whether it be a design question, quality of construction, schedule, or budget. As the owner, you should be informed about the progress of your project and involved in the decision making process. Setting expectations and goals at the beginning of the project are important to minimize the obstacles you will face on a project. The project team can’t predict everything but they can help you work through those challenges and apply their previous experience to the current situation. Rely on the experts to help you with your construction project.
Trust and communication are two components that must be present for a project to overcome challenges and end on a good working relationship. Make sure your contractor possesses these two traits. Should you have questions about a commercial or residential construction project, please don’t hesitate to contact one of us at Tru-Building. We’d be glad to sit down and discuss your project.
Finding a good contractor is a lot harder than what I thought it was going to be. Like you said though, every project is going to have those challenges and it’s all about how the contractor overcomes those challenges that makes the world of difference. I hope that I can find one that is hard working and committed to those kinds of jobs.
I agree with you that communication is key in any construction project. It is one of those things where you should be involved pretty much every step of the way. How else are you going to be able to know if things are being done the way they were planned?
Thank you for what you said about a construction project never being perfect. Especially if you look at any project that is being done by people. My brother was telling me that the best thing he ever did with his projects was to have outside executives oversee the project so that it goes as smoothly as possible. He found that it helped a lot.
I like that you mentioned keeping communication open and honest. I would suggest using a building consultant if you are worried about any serious issues. They can help you feel confident in going forward with your project.
I like that you mentioned how important communication is during a building process. I think conflict can be avoided if you plan well enough in the beginning. If you both understand the end goal most conflicts should be avoided.