Five Critical Mistakes to Avoid During Your Project Kickoff Phase

Without a Process, You're Sailing in Deep Waters Blind

Ignoring the importance of a streamlined process is the first cardinal sin in project management. It’s essential to have a set of standard operating procedures (SOPs) that clearly delineate how the project should progress. When new team members come aboard, a well-defined process prevents the chaos of clashing methodologies and ensures that everyone follows the same path toward the project's successful completion.

Don't Let PMs Navigate Alone

Secondly, Project Managers must not be left to map out contractual relationships and procure materials without the knowledge of the estimators. An estimator’s insight into the logic and assumptions behind vendor selection and budget assumptions is invaluable. PMs who don't have this understanding might favor certain contractors out of bias, leading the project off course. Instead, a collaborative effort from the get-go ensures transparency and adherence to the set budgetary confines.

A Cost Breakdown is Your Compass

Far too many projects start without a detailed cost breakdown, which Jerry rightly condemns. A thorough cost breakdown is imperative to maintain financial control. It aids teams in steering the project in the correct financial direction and allows for immediate corrective measures should it veer off the budgetary path. Without this, one risks discovering that the project has gone financially off only after it's too late to change course.

Assemble Your Construction Project Crew Well Before the Voyage

Another crucial error highlighted is the delay in assembling the project team. For a smooth transition from Preconstruction AND the start of a project, the crew needs to be gathered at the earliest sign of an impending project award. This tactic not only streamlines initial phases like submittals and paperwork but also gathers a wealth of expertise that can preemptively tackle potential obstacles. A team that convenes early is better equipped to navigate the project's intricacies from day one.

Let Estimators Anchor the Kickoff With Clarity

The final misstep is the absence of an extensive project presentation by the estimators to the project team. Estimators hold all the information for the new project at this point– they hold invaluable project knowledge gathered during the bidding phase. A thorough presentation ensures that every team member comprehends the project's dynamics, risks, and timelines. Not allocating time for this essential information exchange is the equivalent of setting off on a long journey without a roadmap.