ConstructConnect Blog

Most construction companies want to deliver the best possible results for their clients while expending the least possible resources. Yet, the construction industry has traditionally been littered with waste and inefficiencies. Today, some of the most successful companies use lean construction philosophy to guide their operations. Companies that do regularly impress clients, maintain high morale and create high-quality structures.

Proper construction lighting is a critical component to worksite safety, not unlike the equipment and gear used by workers. It improves nighttime visibility, making workers less prone to hazards in the evening, and also ensuring the safety of passersby in high-traffic zones.

Construction mistakes are a common occurrence and as expensive as a construction project is, any mistakes during the project can prove to be equally costly for the company. Moreover, when it comes to big projects, the last thing a contractor wants to deal with are extra costs. Construction mistakes force the contractor to add the repair and maintenance cost to the construction budget.

As each new day brings a new state and federal guideline urging companies and employees to work remotely, the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) is changing how many construction pros work daily. No doubt, the concept of “social distancing” may prove difficult to swallow in an industry built around person-to-person, one-on-one interactions—from directing crews in the field to huddling around plans in the office.

Construction technology can add value to your business when struggling to transition through each phase of a project. From bidding new jobs to blueprint apps, workforce time management, and exchanging payment documents, there are many free construction software options, as well as paid ones. This can make everyone’s job easier as you work your way from bidding, into project management, and finally to getting paid.

If you work in construction, you’re probably used to the long wait to get paid after completing a job. You wait patiently for payment from the general contractor (GC). You try calling, sending emails and invoice reminders. Nothing seems to get their attention, in fact, they seem annoyed that you keep asking. Then you ask yourself: Is there anything I could have done to establish a relationship earlier on in the project? In fact, there is: Sending a preliminary notice is one of the best ways you can improve communication and build a stronger relationship from the start.

Rework

Anyone who works in the construction industry knows that anything can go wrong at a moment's notice. Weather and injuries can delay a project, material shortages may increase prices and lack of communication can completely derail plans. When these things happen, the cost of construction rises. Issues do not bode well for the industry, which runs on a tight schedule and maintains a strict budget to make a profit.

The construction industry is rapidly changing. There’s an increasing focus on sustainability, resiliency, and energy efficiency. Clients are expecting higher quality projects while also wanting shorter construction timelines on tighter budgets. Technological advancements are reshaping the way we design and construct the built environment. All of these are leading to increasingly more complex construction projects.

The construction industry has a history of sticking to tried-and-true traditions, but the shiny newness of the digital age is making its way in. Many construction managers might be receptive to implementing new tech, but need strategies on how to secure companywide buy-in. Investigating options and benefits allows every worker to reap the benefits of a streamlined workplace.