Construction projects are one of the most complex ventures a business can undertake. From budgeting and scheduling to managing materials and labor, project managers have countless considerations to keep in mind. That’s why construction delays happen pretty often. Unfortunately, construction projects have become too common if you add the pandemic to the equation. However, one of the main reasons why projects tend to be delayed is because of backlogs.
A construction backlog is when a project is authorized and when construction begins. Backlogs can be caused by many things, such as weather, material shortages, labor shortages, or an increase in the number of projects. Much like delays, these backlogs happen pretty often. Whatever the cause, the backlog can significantly impact your project. Here are four ways that construction backlog can affect your project.
Delays in Construction Start
The most obvious way that backlog can affect your project is by delaying the start of construction. This can happen for several reasons, such as weather, material, or labor shortages. For example, if you expect to start construction in the spring but experience a lengthy backlog, you may have to wait until summer or fall to get started. This delay can throw off your entire project schedule and cause delays throughout the construction process.
Increased Costs
Another way that backlog can affect your project is by increasing costs. Any cost increase can put your project at risk if you are already working with a tight budget. For example, if material prices go up between when your project is authorized and when construction begins, you may have to cut corners in other areas of your budget to make up for the difference. In addition, if you experience a delay in starting construction due to backlog, you may have to pay additional fees to keep your contractors on standby until construction can begin.
Dangers and Accidents
Backlogs can also increase the likelihood of dangers and accidents on a construction site. For example, if labor shortages result in untrained or underqualified workers being hired, it can lead to mistakes and potentially dangerous situations on the job site. In addition, material shortages may result in outdated or inferior materials being used, which can also lead to safety issues.
Lower Quality Materials/Labor
Finally, the backlog can also affect the quality of materials and labor available for your project. If there is a shortage of materials or labor due to increased demand, you may have to settle for lower-quality products or services. This could mean using lower-quality materials that are more likely to break down or using less experienced laborers who are more likely to make mistakes. Either way, this could jeopardize the quality of your final product.
Construction backlog can have a significant impact on your project. That’s why it’s essential to be aware of how backlog can affect your project so that you can plan accordingly.
Dealing with construction backlogs can be a tricky business. On the one hand, you want to ensure that your crews are working as efficiently as possible so that the backlog doesn’t get too out of control. But on the other hand, you don’t want to push your crews too hard and risk making mistakes that could be costly—both in terms of money and time. So how do you strike the right balance? Here are a few tips:
Communication
One of the most important things you can do as a manager keeps open communication lines with your crews. Make sure they know the current backlog situation and let them know your expectations for completing the work. This will help them stay focused and on track.
Hire Trained Professionals
Accidents can lead to delays in construction, so it’s essential to ensure that all your crew members are adequately trained and qualified for the job. In some cases, it may be worth investing in additional training or hiring new crew members with the necessary qualifications and experience. These qualifications can differ from country to country. For example, in the United Kingdom, construction workers are required to take the CITB exam. This exam covers essential safety guidelines and best practices for the construction industry. This can ensure that crew members are adequately trained and able to handle any potential dangers on the job site.
Use Technology
There are several different software programs available that can help you manage construction projects more effectively. These programs can help you keep track of crew hours, project costs, and material usage—all of which will come in handy when it comes time to bill the client.
Creative Scheduling
If you’re dealing with a considerable backlog, you may need to get creative with your scheduling to get the work done promptly. This may mean working longer hours, bringing in additional crews, or even working weekends. Whatever you do, ensure that your crews have the proper rest and break times so they don’t get burned out.
Construction backlogs are an unfortunate reality of the business—but they don’t have to be a death sentence for your project! By following these tips, you can keep things under control and ensure that your project stays on schedule (and within budget).
