Construction projects are known for getting behind schedule. In fact, McKinsey & Company reports that large projects across asset classes typically take 20% longer than planned and are up to 80 percent over budget.

There are many things that can delay a construction project: bad weather, supply chain issues, faulty workmanship, overbooked crews, and more.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. To keep your construction project on schedule, here are five things you can do:

• Review construction plans

Before you break ground, it’s important to review construction plans. These include the scope of work, construction drawings, and other project documents. 

Make sure you and all your subcontractors review them so that everyone is on the same page. If there are any questions, be sure to answer them. 

Then have everyone sign a written contract outlining their responsibility and deadlines. When it’s all in the contract, things are more likely to stay on schedule.

• Create a master schedule

Create a master schedule for everyone to see. Break the project down into phases and put tasks and assignments into the proper sequence. 

The master schedule gives everyone visibility into what stage the construction project is currently at. For example, it can help painters know when the insulation has been installed so they know when the walls are ready for them to paint.

• Communicate and collaborate

Next, you need to establish standard forms of communication, whether that be by text message, email, or some other method. Determining how information will be communicated is critical in avoiding confusion and disputes later on.

Good communication needs to be built on trust and respect for all team members. Everyone should have access to project updates so they stay in the loop. To prevent unnecessary delays, an open door policy with project managers is best. 

• Monitor and document progress

Unfortunately, projects rarely adhere to schedule 100% of the time. Chances are you will need to make minor adjustments here and there, and that’s okay.

The key is to closely monitor a project’s progress so you can quickly get back on schedule. One way to do this is to create daily reports on milestones hit. That way, everyone knows where the project currently sits.

Another way to monitor and document construction progresss is to use construction enterprise asset management (EAM) software. It allows you to input project updates and easily disseminate them across your team. But that’s just one feature of construction EAM software. It can also help you:

• Meet construction industry safety and compliance requirements
• Increase revenue and profitability
• Reduce costs and capital requirements
• Prevent equipment breakdowns
• Maintain optimum parts inventories
• And optimize project budgets

When it comes to construction project management, construction EAM software has you covered.

• Make contingency plans

Lastly, it’s important to have a plan B (and C and D) if things don’t go according to plan. 

For example, your construction project might be delayed by a storm or supply chain issues. In this case, you may want to alter the construction schedule or assign overtime to make up for lost time. 

Keep a close eye on progress reports to manage risks and delays and find creative ways to minimize and make up for them.

The bottom line

Despite most construction projects getting delayed, you can still finish yours on time.

By reviewing construction plans, creating a master schedule, communicating and collaborating, monitoring and documenting progress, and making contingency plans, you can mitigate the threat of delays and even finish ahead of schedule. 

The key is to have a proactive mindset. With good planning and prevention, you’ll be ahead of the game.