Major Phases of a Construction Project

When starting a construction project, planning and the work involved can overwhelm you. Basically, any project can involve hundreds or dozens of tasks to be completed in a timely manner and in the right sequence. Experienced construction project managers understand that handling a project’s details and taking the right steps is crucial for its successful completion. Here are the major phases of a construction project should be followed to make it easy to manage and complete.

Phase 1: Project Initiation

Project initiation marks the beginning of a construction project. At this phase, the feasibility and value of a project is measured. A project manager uses different valuation tools to determine whether a project is worth pursuing. If a project is considered unfeasible or unprofitable, it is abandoned at this stage. But, if a project is considered feasible or profitable, the contractor moves to the next phase.

Phase 2: Project Planning

On receiving the green light, the construction team comes up with a solid plan. This plan guides the team while keeping it on budget and on time. A project plan is basically a guide for acquiring financing, obtaining resources, and procuring materials. It also provides direction to the team in terms of handling risk, producing quality results, creating acceptance, and communicating the benefits to relevant stakeholders as well as managing supplies. A project plan is also aimed at preparing teams for possible obstacles.

Phase 3: Project Execution

Here, deliverables are built as per the expectations of the client. The team leader ensures that this happens by allocating the necessary resources and ensuring that team members remain focused on tasks. Project plan is followed keenly and efforts of the entire team are focused on accomplishing what is specified in the plan.

Phase 4: Project Control and Monitoring

These are generally combined with project execution. That’s because they happen simultaneously. While the plan is executed, project is monitored continuously. Tasks are monitored and processes controlled to ensure that what the client was promised is what is delivered.

Phase 5: Project Closure

Once the project has been completed and delivered to the client, the project is closed. The completion date is communicated to stakeholders and resources are released to the next project. This phase entails evaluation and documentation of the project. The successes and mistakes of the project form the basis of strengthening the team’s processes.

Generally, a construction project can seem overwhelming at first. However, the project becomes easy when broken down into these phases and handled by the right experts.