Clear Specifications
An important lesson I have learned if you are on the design side of the project. Make the specifications clear. Unclear or contradictory specifications just end up leading to having …
Regular Projects Review Meetings
Your company should have regular projects review meetings. This should include all the head project managers, production managers, installation managers, purchasing manager, tender manager, etc. The aim of this meeting …
Document All Client Communication
The title says it all. Document all communication with your client (and with suppliers and contractors). Even with friendly or familiar clients. Client’s project manager may change, so verbal agreements …
Scope Creep
Scope creep is sneaky and costly. Learn how to spot it early, manage it firmly, and keep your project from going walkabout with these proven field strategies.
Check Geotechnical Information
Check and double check geotechnical information supplied by the client. If the client supplies the information, it would be ideal for the contract to specify that your design/construction relies on …
Only Have One Project Manager
The Project Manager should manage the client, risks, and resources, and delegate most other tasks to others, those others should not also be a project manager on the project. Multiple …
The Importance of Good Communication
Good communication is a key skill for a project manager. Good design of the product is assumed by the client. The key to keeping things running smoothly and making the …
Avoid Bias
When you are making important decisions or preparing designs, get a second opinion on them before acting, because you may be coming from a biased or primed attitude. (Primed is …
Approval Time Limit
Make sure that the contract specifies the length of time allowed for approvals or decisions. When drawings or documents are sent to the client for approval, you need to know …
How to Make Design Management More Efficient
Design Management is complicated. Make sure you have a reliable system in place to ensure nothing is missed. It will help your team complete the designs accurately and on time.