on time to budget every time.
We could bore you with the details of the project management methodologies we use, and the certificates and qualifications we have. But the fact of the matter is that we listen to our clients, choose the right methodology and process for the project, and thoroughly understand and convey the project risks.
our process - planning.
Before we begin, we have an initial meeting to understand the project and what it means to you. We provide a ‘reverse brief’ back to you that clearly sets out the terms of our engagement. We can have as much or as little input as is required and the level of service will be captured as a ‘scope’ within the engagement documents.
This part of the process is where we work with our clients to understand exactly what the project involves (scoping), project plan with timeframes and risks, expected project outcomes, and budget. If procurement services are required, this will also be the stage where scoping and tendering, or early contractor engagement is carried out.
It is important to note that construction projects almost always never go exactly to plan. It is very rare for a project to be carried out without some unforeseen issue arising along the way. This does not mean the project is not successful - it is just another risk that needs to be planned for.
As part of our process, we will provide you with advice to allow you to put an adequate contingency into place along with an allowance for additional time when budgeting to reduce or eliminate the impact of those issues. This will allow you to have an accurate idea of the costs and length of the project, and start off with a solid footing.
It helps no-one for any stakeholder of a project to have unrealistic expectations with regard to timeframe and budget. In the planning stage, we will set the expectations of all parties involved at a realistic level, prior to the commencement of the project.
our process - execution.
The execution stage of the project is where ‘the rubber hits the road’ so to speak. Budget is allocated, contracts with consultants and contractors are signed, insurances are put in place, the site is established and the works commence.
Throughout the execution stage, there will be many meetings had between project stakeholders and the project manager, as well as with the consultants and contractors. We will provide you with reporting per your requirements (i.e. weekly, fortnightly, monthly), which will contain updates on how the project is tracking. You can expect to see updates on expenditure, risks, health and safety, and the timeline.
We will make recommendations to you, from our discussions with contractors and consultants, for the ordering of off-site (pre-ordered) materials where possible, to avoid timeframe slippage and price escalations. We will also manage any disputes between the client, consultants, and contractors (at the first instance).
When on-site, we will be acting on behalf of you (within agreed limits) and in your best interests. Essentially, we will be your ‘eyes and ears’ for the duration of the project.
our process - completion.
This is the final stage of a project, where you can reap the fruits of your labour. However, prior to that, there are a few checks to be undertaken before you can use the building.
When signalled by the contractor, we will undertake all the final checks to ensure that your project is ‘practically complete’, if this has not already been done throughout the project. This involves a site walkover with the responsible contractor to search for any defects or ‘snags’. It is common that a client and the designer also attend the walkover, to ensure that all things are up to standard.
When the final checks are made, a ‘practical completion’ certificate can be signed and the contractor(s) can be paid up until this stage of the process, less any retention monies held for the ‘defects liability period’. We will also ensure that all of the correct warranty information and operations and maintenance manuals are provided by
If the project requires a ‘Code Compliance Certificate’ from Council, there may also be another payment once this is achieved.
After the final payment has been made, and the building has been cleared for habitation, our involvement in the project will end. A final report and project debrief will be had, and the building is yours to enjoy!