What do you do if you're juggling multiple construction deadlines?

Managing multiple construction deadlines can be like trying to keep several plates spinning at once. You're tasked with overseeing different projects, each with its own set of demands and timelines. It's a balancing act that requires meticulous planning, constant communication, and the ability to anticipate and mitigate risks. If you find yourself in this situation, it's crucial to prioritize tasks, delegate effectively, and maintain a clear overview of all projects. Remember, construction management isn't just about meeting deadlines; it's about delivering quality work within the stipulated time frames while ensuring the safety and satisfaction of all stakeholders.

1 Prioritize Tasks

When faced with multiple deadlines, it's essential to prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance. Identify the critical milestones for each project and allocate resources accordingly. This might mean focusing on the project closest to completion or the one with the most pressing deadline. By evaluating the impact of each task on the overall project timelines, you can make informed decisions about where to direct your energy and resources, ensuring that the most important elements are addressed first.

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Terry Tracy

Assistant Vice President at Trilogy Health Services, LLC
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Managing in crisis situations is an acquired skill, gained from experience. Prioritize the schedules and their impacts if deadlines are not met. Are there financial impacts [liquidated damages] that will be assessed if a deadline is missed? What's the daily amount? Easy enough... New client or established one? Again, no brainer. What we also have to do is judge contractor resources that can expedite completion. Can we manage enough manpower to possibly hit the deadline? Will the Owner pay for OT work? If mismanagement on the GC's part is the culprit, why wouldn't they assume responsibility and communication with the Owner? Critical Path Management is the key to a deadline.

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Blessing Kudzionera

Project Civil Engineer @ UNDP Zimbabwe | Construction Engineer| Project Manager (Google, Microsoft & PMI-PMP Certified)| Certified Construction Professional (PMI-CP)| Construction Project Manager
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Site activities do not have the same priorities hence it is important to assess the individual site activities and prioritize them depending on how critical they are. Resources will then be directed to critical activities accordingly.

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2 Delegate Wisely

Delegation is a key skill in construction management, especially when juggling multiple projects. Assess the strengths and capabilities of your team members and assign tasks accordingly. Trusting your team with responsibilities not only helps distribute the workload but also empowers them to take ownership of their part in the project. Effective delegation can lead to a more efficient workflow and can free up your time to focus on high-level planning and problem-solving.

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Blessing Kudzionera

Project Civil Engineer @ UNDP Zimbabwe | Construction Engineer| Project Manager (Google, Microsoft & PMI-PMP Certified)| Certified Construction Professional (PMI-CP)| Construction Project Manager
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Delegating tasks does not take away the accountability of the Project Manager hence it is important to delegate wisely and also continuously soliciting feedback from the subordinates handling the delegated tasks.

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3 Communicate Clearly

Clear communication is the cornerstone of managing multiple construction deadlines. Keep all stakeholders informed about progress, changes, and potential issues. Regular meetings, whether in person or through digital platforms, help ensure everyone is on the same page. Effective communication also involves listening to the concerns and suggestions of your team, which can provide valuable insights and foster a collaborative work environment.

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Blessing Kudzionera

Project Civil Engineer @ UNDP Zimbabwe | Construction Engineer| Project Manager (Google, Microsoft & PMI-PMP Certified)| Certified Construction Professional (PMI-CP)| Construction Project Manager
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Lack of clear and effective communication can be detrimental to the project. Avoid working with assumptions and communicate effectively with all stakeholders according to the communication management plan.

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4 Anticipate Risks

Risk management is an integral part of construction management. Anticipating potential delays or problems before they occur can save time and resources in the long run. Conduct regular risk assessments for each project and develop contingency plans. By being proactive rather than reactive, you can maintain better control over your projects and minimize the impact of unforeseen events on your deadlines.

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Blessing Kudzionera

Project Civil Engineer @ UNDP Zimbabwe | Construction Engineer| Project Manager (Google, Microsoft & PMI-PMP Certified)| Certified Construction Professional (PMI-CP)| Construction Project Manager
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Risks exist at all levels of the project. Anticipate and identify such risks in advance and plan some mitigate or risk management ahead of time. Risk responses should be tailored to meet the risk appetite of the organisation.

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5 Utilize Technology

Technology can be a powerful ally in managing multiple construction deadlines. Project management software allows you to track progress, manage documents, and coordinate schedules in real time. Utilizing such tools can enhance efficiency and provide a centralized platform for all project-related information. This can be particularly valuable when you need to quickly assess the status of various projects and make informed decisions.

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Blessing Kudzionera

Project Civil Engineer @ UNDP Zimbabwe | Construction Engineer| Project Manager (Google, Microsoft & PMI-PMP Certified)| Certified Construction Professional (PMI-CP)| Construction Project Manager
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Technology makes like easy and it enables leaders to be effective. Project Management Information Systems (PMIS) consolidates all essential Project Management information from one system. Usage of such tools improves one's effectiveness in the project manager role.

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6 Maintain Flexibility

In construction management, flexibility is vital. Despite the best-laid plans, unexpected issues can arise that require a shift in strategy. Be prepared to adjust schedules, reallocate resources, or revise plans as necessary. Maintaining a flexible approach allows you to respond to challenges without losing sight of your overall objectives. It's about finding the right balance between sticking to the plan and adapting to changes on the ground.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What do you do if you're juggling multiple construction deadlines?

1

2

3

4

5

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7

1 Prioritize Tasks

2 Delegate Wisely

3 Communicate Clearly

4 Anticipate Risks

5 Utilize Technology

6 Maintain Flexibility

7 Here’s what else to consider

Construction Management

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What do you do if you're juggling multiple construction deadlines?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Prioritize Tasks

2 Delegate Wisely

3 Communicate Clearly

4 Anticipate Risks

5 Utilize Technology

6 Maintain Flexibility

7 Here’s what else to consider

Construction Management

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