Ever wondered why your projects finish late, or why you can’t keep to the construction programme schedule? 

Simple truth is the programme was probably wrong from the start.

• Large projects typically take 20% longer to finish than scheduled and are up to 80% over budget. (source McKinsey Global Institute)
• Programme is the top performance measure in 80% of Projects (source KPMG Global Construction Survey 2017)
• Just 25% of projects came within 10% of their original deadlines in the past 3 years. (source KPMG Global Construction Survey 2015)

Most construction programmes are written by Managers who have had minimal training in the subject, and consequently their knowledge of the subject and the software is a little shallow. 

And by this, I mean they would be out of their depth in a puddle.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s not the manager’s fault, it’s just a symptom of the problem.  There is very little construction focussed training available, so how can they improve their skills?

I meet this problem every day, it’s a twofold issue. Their programme doesn’t work from the start, I write them a programme that does; and then the site managers don’t know the software well enough to fully utilise it in running the project efficiently.

The real problem is that many Companies don’t realise they have a problem.

They have only been skimming the surface of what’s possible and have never seen a fully comprehensive programme or what it can do to lower risk and raise efficiency.

Even simple things such as:

• Subcontractor programmes to keep the Subs advised of changes in timing and manning levels needed.
• Work-streaming to allow different members of the team to focus on their areas of the build.
• Recording delays and changing circumstances to ensure Extensions of Time are appropriately claimed and proven.

The way to correct this is to raise the level of understanding and knowledge.  It will pay dividends not only for the Company, in the expertise of the Manager, but also the industry as a whole.

If you are a Project Manager/Construction Manager who wants to improve your construction programming & scheduling skills, and needs a bit of support, I am happy to help, by acting as a mentor, free of charge.

If you would like to know how I can help, email me -  Steve@Menlo-Associates.co.nz or, if you know someone else who may benefit from this please share the Article with them.  Space is limited, so act now!