Simplifying work processes are vital to the success of a business. If you can limit the amount of paperwork required in a project, then not only will the project be completed in a faster time, but also it is likely to be cheaper.
While we know that cheaper does not always mean better, if it is more affordable because you have been able to reduce the time taken, that is always a bonus. Here are three simple ways to limit the paperwork required on a construction project without cutting essential corners.
1) Carefully consider the right processes to follow
Every project is different; that is well known. However, suppose you don’t compile research into which processes will best suit your individual projects. In that case, you could end up with a one-size-fits-all approach which hampers the timings and could mess with finances.
So the first thing to do is consider the size of the project. Is it complex, and how long is it expected to take? People have various skill sets, but everything needs to be carefully considered in industries like construction to avoid any harmful scenarios.
Depending on the size of the project, you’ll then be thinking about whether to assign it to an experienced or inexperienced project manager. If you opt for someone inexperienced, it could take longer and therefore be more expensive. That’s when the processes that are chosen really do matter. A simple technique will naturally require less documentation, which is why following the right path matters.
2) Automate paperwork with construction project management software
Once the contracts have been signed, the briefs filed, and the processes agreed on, it’s time to consider the best route to completion.
Suppose a streamlined process with an inexperienced project manager is the route you have opted to go for. In that case, consider using a type of construction project management software. This helps to streamline processes and limit the amount of manual paperwork required in your project.
In addition, limiting human error makes for a more efficient business, and while mistakes can always happen, they are easier to correct.
3) Don’t have meetings for meeting’s sake
If you are following best practices, you’ll be taking notes and minutes for each meeting. You can limit the paperwork by reducing the number of sessions you have. We’ve all heard the saying: “this meeting could have been an email!”
This is common, particularly in the construction industry. Some people will prefer to have face-to-face meetings as they feel they get more done, but sometimes travel time will not be considered. 2 hours a day can often be lost to traveling to meetings when it could have been a phone call or even an online forum.
Again, the number of meetings required can be drastically reduced if the project is smaller. This would result in a lot less paperwork being filed and a more streamlined process. It is easy to save time and be more efficient with project management. And it seems so simple!