Understand the what, when and why of the project and its due dates. This involves clear communication, and results in a realistic schedule that should satisfy the requirements of the client and your team’s ability to deliver it.
Write and use a good Project Management Plan. A project management plan is one of the most important project documents. Every project should have one. Even a short plan is better than no plan.
Install safety or security fences around physical works areas. Do a safety risk assessment to determine the type of fence required. Allow enough budget.
A good timesheet and labour forecasting system should make the task of budget forecasting much more efficient and accurate, saving time and money.
Avoid problems later by checking early in the project who is responsible for what aspect of the project and who has authority to approve what. Document this.
Due dates are often not set clearly. Be specific with time based language. Specify the date and time something is due. This will reduce misunderstandings on when things are due.
Delays on projects are very common. Record the reasons for all project delays. Notify your client of delays in the project schedule as soon as possible, whether the delay is the clients fault or not.
Booking last minute meetings causes distraction, delays projects, slows people’s work, and doesn’t encourage good attendance. Schedule meetings with as much advance notice as possible.
Meetings take time. Being prepared for meetings as the organiser, and as an attendee, saves time in meetings and makes them more productive. It is also much more professional.
Wet weather can cause delays to your project. Allow for wet weather in your project schedule. This will make getting extensions of time and cost easier.