Engineering projects are very difficult because there is a lot at stake. The hypothesis phase or trial and error phase occurs when creating plans. But once the project starts, there is no room for major changes. After all, you are dealing with important structures that need a solid foundation. Materials are also expensive and projects always have set deadlines.
The success, therefore, of any engineering project begins with good, thorough planning. Think of it as you would any other project. If something doesn't start with a plan, then that project is truly doomed to failure in the long run. And failure is something you don't want to happen in an engineering project.
Below are five of the most important things you should consider before planning an engineering project.
1. Draw up a contract
Before beginning any engineering or construction project, it is always imperative to have a general contractor agreement that comes complete with the 6 elements of a contract. This would cover the boundaries of the construction project and the rights and obligations of both the engineer-contractor and the client before, during and after completion of the project.
This contract must also contain detailed project cost estimates. Having a contract is very important because an engineering project brings with it the safety and well-being of properties and lives. If something goes wrong, you have a contract that legally binds both parties to help smooth over disagreements.
That said, your contract should have at least the following so that you feel confident the project will go as smoothly as possible:
- Clear language: For your contract to be official, it does not need to contain complicated and incomprehensible legal terms. Keep the language as clear as possible so that it can be clearly understood even by non-engineers.
- Insurance Requirements: A good engineering contractor is one who also has insurance. This way, if something happens during the project, you will be sure that there is an insurance company that will cover the expenses and liabilities.
- Fixed Payment Schedule: Refers to the payment method and frequency with which the client must pay the engineer-contractor until the full price of the project is paid.
2. Assess the project scope
One of the most difficult challenges to face in any construction project arises when the client has unrealistic expectations regarding the scope of the project.
Generally, the scope will be described in the general contract. This has to be absolute. A good contractor will make it clear that once the project begins, no changes or changes to the design should be made. Any extensions and additional work will mean additional costs and delays.
However, some clients can be so difficult that they think it's okay to add a few changes because they are minimal. Then, when the contractor revises the price to accommodate these “few changes”, he haggles the price.
It is important that both parties understand that the scope of the project is definitive and final. Otherwise, delays will certainly happen. If a particular work or adjustment that the client wants is not included in the original scope of the project, this will need to be covered in a new contract and may even need an additional warranty.
3. Hold an initial meeting
The kickoff meeting is the first meeting you will have with your client right after completing the project plan. The engineer-contractor will present this plan or project to the client and explain everything in detail.
This initial meeting is an opportunity for you and the client to put all your cards on the table. If there are any changes to the plan or model, these must be raised immediately at the meeting.
The architect and/or interior designer will also be present during this meeting, if the project has one. This can ensure a continuous flow of information, design and good communication between all parties who have knowledge of the engineering project.
4. Define success criteria
As an engineer-contractor, having established criteria for success can give you the means to decipher whether the project is truly successful or not. This may vary from one client to another. Therefore, for each project you are going to undertake, the success criteria must be made in reference to the scope of the project and the needs of the client.
Generally, however, the goal should always be to invoice the project on or before the deadline. Project estimates should also be as accurate as possible so that you don't have to keep asking the client for additional payments. Lastly, quality should not be compromised either.
5. Create a project timeline
Creating a project schedule is a step that the engineer-contractor should perform only with his team. After meeting with a client who has already approved the final plan, this is a good sign for you to start working on the project. This is also when you can start meeting with your team to create a project timeline.
This meeting must be with everyone who will be part of the construction project – from electrical engineers, electricians, painters and even carpenters or bricklayers. This way, a smooth flow of communication can be carried out from the beginning and everyone is aware of the responsibilities they play in completing the project.
This project schedule should also include discussions about the project schedule. This discussion can help each team be aware of the impending deadlines they will have to meet. As much as possible, you can also divide the tasks weekly. By doing this, you will have a way to determine at the end of each week whether or not these deadlines will be met.
Conclusion
Everyone plans projects differently, so this is not intended to be an exclusive, one-size-fits-all approach to engineering projects. It is just a guide to what is non-negotiable before starting the engineering project. Remember that these types of projects are serious and very important, so they should not be taken lightly. The tips above, to get started, can help get your project off on the right foot. The objective of every engineering project is to finish as quickly as possible, at the best price and with the best quality.
