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The success of any building project depends upon how it is managed from beginning to end. A project plan is an invaluable tool in the initiation, continuation, and delivery of any project, with wide ranging benefits, such as:
- A timetable of tasks to be completed;
- Resource requirements diarised;
- Milestones to work to;
- Flagging of statutory building inspections.
Such a program helps management to work on the project rather than in the project.
Considerations of project programming
When beginning to program a project, you’ll need to consider a number of associated elements and factors. This includes the objectives of the build, scheduling and organising teams within the process, as well as making allowances for slippage (emergencies happen, but you can still plan for them). You’ll also need to establish how to monitor progress and adjust along the way.
Timetabling
When setting out a timetable for tasks, a proven method is to look at the big picture, before drilling down to finer details. This involves taking a macro approach first – for example timetabling ‘establishment of site’ – before then detailing what is required to complete the macro task: the micro approach - tasks such as hording and fencing, site sheds, toilets, etc.
This macro and micro planning should be applied throughout the project, dividing the whole into more easily manageable parts.
All the separate elements need to be factored into a schedule of statutory building inspections covering:
- Site Establishment
- Footings Inspections
- Carpentry Inspections
- Water Proofing
- Storm Water Drainage System
A Checklist approach
When a project is comprehensively planned, you’ll find you manage in a proactive manner rather than wasting valuable time and effort on fighting fires as you lurch from one emergency to another. By working to a timetable, and combining a checklist, you’ll be perfectly placed to:
- Prepare for the tasks ahead
- Schedule and co-ordinate tradespeople and linking activities
- Co-ordinate ordering and delivery schedules, mitigating downtime
- Co-ordinate trades when working together
Evidencing to Clients
The ‘Programming Your Project’ module of Blueprint CPD will take you through the requirements of this necessary part of your business. It provides a blueprint for project programming, working through the process of preparing a project program, and includes all major trades and tasks.
Not only will this be invaluable evidence of capability for clients, but also prove to add real value in the planning and management of all your residential build projects. This module counts toward your CPD points requirement for your builders licence.
To find out more, contact Blueprint CPD now.