In industrial construction, Murphy’s law reigns supreme. If it can go wrong, chances are it will. Success doesn’t mean a problem-free project; it means construction teams skillfully tackle every issue that arises.
So, what common issues might a project face, and how should you address them? Read on as we spotlight five of the most frequent construction challenges and how to conquer them, from an inadequate project budget to supply chain chaos.
1. Project Budget Problems
Large-scale projects often exceed their project budget, and industrial construction is no exception.
Unforeseen site conditions can contribute to this. For instance, unexpected geological challenges might require a change in building design.
Though it’s impossible to anticipate everything, there are ways to minimize risks. Collaborating with major stakeholders on a thorough risk assessment can help uncover any potential surprises. Utilizing flexible contract models accounting for changes in scope may also be wise.
2. Safety and Regulatory Compliance
Industrial construction faces stringent safety regulations. You must show that your design-build contractor has complied with the law. Violations could halt the project until issues are resolved.
Regulations exist for good reason. Large-scale projects lacking safety can have dire consequences.
Take the Fukushima Daiichi disaster. Designers underestimated tsunami risks, leading to an insufficient seawall and plant flooding. Strict regulations can prevent such oversights.
To ensure compliance and safety, involve safety experts in the planning stages. This identifies regulatory issues and ensures a safe building design.
3. Stakeholder Coordination
Industrial construction involves juggling stakeholders. Contractor management is crucial, but so is handling the subcontractors of your commercial contractor. Other decision-makers may clash on the project budget and scope.
This complex interplay can cause confusion. To prevent it, facilitate regular communication. Hold meetings, and use collaborative software to keep everyone in the loop.
4. Technical Problems
Industrial construction is tech-driven, yet discerning beneficial technology is tough. Consider the use of drones in construction projects.
It’s unwise for a general contractor to use them purely to look innovative. They’re worthy investments in certain cases and money-wasters in others.
Bringing in specialist consultants can help. They’ll cut through the hype and pick the proper tools for the job.
5. Supply Chain Issues
Industrial construction projects are prone to supply chain issues. To finish on time and within the project budget, all materials must be acquired. Regrettably, global supply chain problems are on the rise, causing delays in obtaining building materials.
Take, for instance, the 2020 COVID-19 lockdowns. Various industries faced delays due to supply chain disruptions. More recently, we have seen similar issues with attacks on ships in the Red Sea, forcing shipping companies to choose safer but slower routes.
A solution is forging strong relationships with suppliers. This could make your project a priority if supply chain hiccups occur. It’s also wise to maximize what you have. Supply chain management software, along with advanced planning and inventory management, can help.
You Need an Industrial Construction Partner
Successful industrial construction needs careful planning, savvy tech use, and a dash of luck. To ensure your Tacoma-based project is on time and within budget, find the right Tacoma architect company.
HHJ Architecture & Construction boasts a proven track record. With over 40 years of construction and architectural know-how, we excel at thorough project planning. Reach out today to discover how we can make your construction dream a reality.