Supporting today’s construction project life cycle requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond satisfying the basic project requirements. Construction managers must be able to embrace new technology, support efficient management, adhere to ethical standards, and focus on sustainability.

As a construction manager, it’s your job to find the best strategies that support every phase of the construction project, including feasibility, planning, initiation, execution, and the overall management of the project.

That’s why the American Institute of Constructors (AIC) pushes for the advancement of construction best practices to support construction managers in today’s rapidly changing construction environment. Take a look at our guide for how to optimize the project life cycle phases when managing your next project.

A Guide to Supporting the Modern Construction Project Life Cycle

Following these five important tips will help you complete projects more effectively while upholding other constructors, supporting construction teams, and meeting client demands.

1. Leverage New Technologies

Tip: Don’t be afraid to use new technologies that can help workers do their jobs more effectively and safely.

Embracing new ways of doing things can have a profound effect on your project’s results. Many constructors have learned the trade from the previous generation, but new technologies are making the old tried and true methods less appealing.

Knowing how to leverage key tools will help you support the project timeline, keep costs under control, and strive for quality deliverables.

Digital Project Management

Utilize new tools and software to streamline communication and collaboration. These platforms offer real-time updates, document sharing, and project tracking, ensuring that project management teams are on the same page.

Building Information Modeling (BIM)

BIM has changed how construction project plans are designed, planned, and executed. This advanced process involves creating 3D models of a building that includes information about materials, structural component, and schedules.

Using BIM allows for early problem detection and resolution while also providing a shared visual platform for everyone involved in the process. In so doing, it can foster collaboration between different professionals and enhance decision-making by offering a comprehensive view of the entire project life cycle.

Wearable Technology

Wearable technology, such as smart helmets, vests, and safety glasses, is transforming how constructors interact with their environment.

Smart helmets, for example, come equipped with features like augmented reality (AR) displays, vital sign monitoring, and hazard detection. This technology improves worker safety, enhances productivity, and streamlines tasks. These tools can help provide workers with real-time information, including everything from site plans and instructions to environmental conditions.

2. Risk Management & Safety

Tip: Create a risk management strategy in tandem with your safety plan for an all-inclusive approach to a better work environment.

Developing a robust risk management strategy and a thorough safety plan will help to address potential issues proactively. Ensure that insurance coverage is comprehensive, safety training and protocols are completed, and emergency procedures are followed.

Knowing how to deal with every kind of risk or safety issue before it happens will help save lives and prevent injuries. Also, focusing on this step signals to employees that management cares about them as people, which will help boost morale.

3. Workforce Optimization

Tip: Prioritize workforce training and development to ensure your team can effectively use the latest technologies.

In this tech-driven era, a well-trained workforce is crucial to maximizing the benefits of new technology. Training programs are essential to ensure that employees can effectively operate equipment, use software, and adhere to safety procedures. A highly skilled workforce is more efficient, makes fewer errors, and reduces costly downtime. 

Workforce optimization extends beyond training, as it can also involve strategic staffing, resource allocation, and effective communication. When the right people are in the right roles and can effectively use the available technology, construction projects become more cost-effective and efficient.

4. Sustainability & Quality Control

Tip: Double down on sustainability and quality control for a better overall project life cycle.

Sustainability and quality control (QC) are two cornerstones of the construction project life cycle. These elements ensure the success and long-term viability of a project. Together, they help constructors in the following ways:

• Ensures the successful completion of a project.
• Contributes to environmental responsibility by effectively managing resources.
• Supports long-term cost savings by intelligently satisfying resource requirements.
• Improves safety for everyone on-site.
• Increases client satisfaction.
• Benefits the construction industry and society at large.

5. Collaboration & Communication

Tip: Create open channels of communication between different areas of the project to ensure a collaborative job site and more synergy between various positions.

Pushing for open communication and a collaborative environment helps the construction process move more smoothly. Construction managers are better equipped to adhere to schedules and budgets, promote safety, and meet the expectations of clients and stakeholders. 

Being able to freely pass along knowledge, insight, and expertise between team members will ensure a project’s success.

Collaboration

Construction projects involve a wide array of specialists – from architects and engineers to subcontractors and suppliers. Effective collaboration between architects, engineers, and constructors can harness unique skill sets and result in well-informed decision-making.

Communication

Every team member should understand the project’s objectives, scope, and their respective roles. Having an open channel of communication is crucial for identifying and resolving issues promptly as the project progresses from one phase to the next. This effort can prevent small problems from escalating into major setbacks.

Learn More About Optimizing the Construction Project Life Cycle

In the end, framing the construction project life cycle as an ever-evolving process will help you plan effectively and execute the work according to the client owner’s needs. Furthermore, focusing on the human aspects of construction projects can uplift others and establish yourself as an upstanding manager.

If you are interested in more tips and information from AIC, follow our association on LinkedIn. We post regularly about the topics that affect construction managers – from industry news to certification testing to advice from long-time professionals.

Give us a follow to learn more about how to support construction projects and other critical issues facing today’s construction managers.