What are accelerated civil construction works?

In the construction industry, the implementation of accelerated construction techniques has been an increasingly common response to demands for faster, more efficient projects. While this method can offer significant benefits, it also presents unique challenges that contractors must address to ensure project success.

Accelerated Construction: Concept and Practice

Accelerated construction challenges the traditional approach of completing the project before construction begins. Instead, some tasks are performed simultaneously, allowing portions of the work to be completed before the design phase is fully completed. This approach seeks to reduce the total time needed to complete a project by optimizing construction processes.

Accelerated Construction Strategies

1. Implementation of Prefabricated Capsules: Prefabricated capsules are construction elements manufactured off-site and subsequently installed on site. This approach allows for quick and efficient assembly, reducing the time needed to complete certain stages of the project.
2. Solid Core in Skyscrapers: Building a solid core in skyscrapers is another common accelerated construction strategy. By focusing efforts on constructing the central core of the building, contractors can significantly accelerate construction progress, allowing other teams to work simultaneously on other areas of the project.

Advantages of Accelerated Construction

1. Cost Reduction: Accelerated construction can result in significant cost savings, mainly due to the reduction in the time required to complete the project. Additionally, purchasing materials in advance can help mitigate price increases over time.
2. Rapid Project Delivery: By adopting accelerated construction strategies, contractors can deliver projects more quickly, meeting client demands for shorter lead times and increasing their competitiveness in the market.
3. Greater Use of Resources: Optimizing construction processes allows for more efficient use of resources, including labor, equipment and materials. This can result in greater productivity and profitability for construction companies.

Challenges of Accelerated Construction

1. Poor Quality and Errors: Pressure to complete the project quickly can lead to reduced quality of work and errors during construction. These issues can result in rework, delays and additional costs.
2. Inadequate Planning: Accelerated construction often requires a more flexible and adaptive approach to project planning. Lack of comprehensive planning can lead to workplace improvisations and change orders that can negatively impact the schedule and budget.
3. Unrealistic Client Expectations: Clients may have unrealistic expectations about delivery times and quality of work when opting for accelerated construction. Clear and realistic communication is essential to align expectations and avoid disagreements throughout the project.

Conclusion

Accelerated construction offers an exciting opportunity for contractors to improve the efficiency and speed of delivery of construction projects. However, it is essential to carefully address the challenges associated with this method and ensure that the benefits outweigh the risks. With proper planning, effective communication, and diligent execution, accelerated construction can be a valuable strategy for achieving success in future construction projects.