Benefits of Preconstruction Services
Laying the Right Foundation for your Construction Project
Preconstruction services play a crucial role in the success of any construction project, whether it’s a commercial or industrial venture. In this post, we will explore what is offered in preconstruction services, how they can save your business money, and why it is essential to choose a general contracting firm like Pearson Construction for your preconstruction needs.
Outlining the Preconstruction Phase
Preconstruction services encompass a range of activities that take place before the actual construction begins. These services are typically provided by general contracting firms and are aimed at setting the project up for success.
Site evaluation and analysis: A thorough evaluation of the construction site is conducted to assess its suitability for the project. This includes analyzing factors such as soil conditions, topography, access to utilities, and any potential environmental or regulatory constraints.
Cost estimation: Accurate cost estimation is crucial for budgeting and financial planning. Preconstruction services involve creating detailed estimates by considering factors such as labor, materials, equipment, permits, and potential contingencies.
Value engineering and Material Procurement: Value engineering is a process that aims to optimize the project’s value by identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or functionality. Preconstruction services include value engineering studies to help identify potential areas for cost reduction. Our construction team can explore alternative materials that may be more cost-effective or have better performance characteristics. We research and evaluate different suppliers to find the best options for the project, considering factors such as cost, quality, and availability. Efficient material procurement through preconstruction services helps streamline the construction process, minimize project risks, and ensure that the project progresses smoothly.
Subcontractor Pre-qualification and Selection: Prequalification refers to the process of evaluating subcontractors based on their experience, capabilities, financial stability, and past performance. By pre-qualifying subcontractors, the construction project can ensure that only qualified and reliable subcontractors are hired for the job. Our preconstruction services allow for a thorough evaluation of subcontractors, which includes checking their licenses, insurance coverage, safety records, and references.
Design coordination: During the preconstruction phase, general contractors work closely with architects and engineers to ensure that the project’s design aligns with the client’s vision, budget, and timeline. This coordination helps identify potential design conflicts or issues early on, saving time and resources during the construction phase.
Why choose Pearson Construction for your Preconstruction Needs
When it comes to preconstruction services, choosing the right partner is crucial. General contracting firms like Pearson Construction have extensive experience and expertise in the construction industry. Our team has a deep understanding of various project types and can provide valuable insights and recommendations during the preconstruction phase. At Pearson, we also have a vast network of subcontractors and suppliers. Over the more than 100 years we have been in business in southwest Michigan, we have established relationships with a network of top-notch subcontractors and suppliers. This allows us to secure competitive bids and negotiate favorable contracts – ultimately saving you money on labor and materials.
Our general contracting firm acts as a single point of contact for all preconstruction activities. This ensures streamlined communication between the various stakeholders, including: architects, engineers, subcontractors, and suppliers, reducing the chances of miscommunication or delays. Our team at Pearson has project management capabilities that are essential during the preconstruction phase. They can effectively coordinate all activities, track progress, and ensure that all necessary permits and approvals are obtained in a timely manner.
Contact Our Team at Pearson for your Preconstruction Planning
Preconstruction services offer numerous benefits to businesses in the construction industry. By leveraging these services, you can ensure that your project is set up for success from the very beginning. From accurate cost estimation to value engineering and efficient project planning, preconstruction services help save money, minimize risks, and improve overall project outcomes. So, whether you’re embarking on a commercial or industrial construction project, consider partnering with Pearson Construction for your preconstruction needs.
Harmony…… The biggest threat to project success is disagreements among the project team. In the “Traditional Delivery Method”, known as Design-Bid-Build, the owner enters into separate contracts with the architectural and construction firms. Both entities are ultimately looking out for their own best interest and not necessarily that of the team. When issues arise during the construction process, the finger pointing starts, blame is cast upon each other, and the project can quickly spiral into conflict. Conflicts ultimately manifest into change orders that may negatively affect the schedule and budget. But more importantly, conflicts erode trust and hinder project success.
Direction…… One initial question every owner inevitably asks is “how much will it cost?”. If using the traditional method, costs will be known after the design is complete, bidding documents distributed, and bid results received by the owner. If bids exceed the owner’s budget, which is common today, projects are easily derailed. This occurs when the project is “over-designed” or operating on an unrealistic initial budget. The owner, having spent considerable time, energy and funds, must decide to either abandon the project or re-design. A re-design will increase the overall schedule, sometimes by weeks and the owner must solicit bids again, hoping that costs land within budget.
Perspective…… Construction perspective during the project’s design is a central element of Design/Build. While the architects and engineers are designing, the construction team is providing the indispensable construction perspective regarding building systems, material selections, means and methods, etc. through periodic constructability reviews. This process assists in preventing over-design, initial over-costing, and aims to curb change orders during construction. Many change order situations will be identified during design through effective constructability reviews, saving project costs, preventing schedule delays while maintaining project harmony and trust with the owner.
Conclusion…… These are only a few of the many benefits of Design/Build. As you evaluate your project goals and objectives, consider how Design/Build might be the best answer to your “how to build” question. To learn more about Design/Build, please contact Pearson Construction at pearsonconstruction.com. Their knowledgeable team can assist with your selection of delivery method and get you one step closer to the building you envision.
