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Construction Project Management - Project Status Updates That Work
October 7, 2008 | Author: PM Hut | Filed under: Communications Management, Performance Reporting
Construction Project Management - Project Status Updates That Work
By John Kreiss
Show me a construction project that did not go well and I’ll show you communication breakdowns somewhere in the process. What is the result? Scheduling delays, higher costs, and stress are all probable in these types of cases. Sending regular project status updates, however, can help prevent these types of breakdowns and improve the overall operation of these projects. Here are some tips for writing effective project status updates.
Write them weekly and send them electronically. Email is a great tool where one message can reach all the parties and everyone gets the same written message. Some people might prefer to get these updates monthly or quarterly which is fine, but I’d still write them weekly for your files and then put the information together when it’s time to submit the memo.
Include key contacts involved with the project i.e. owner, architect, subcontractors, suppliers, etc. Communication is key. If someone is left out of the mix, you’re asking for trouble.
Keep the updates brief. One page project status memos in bullet form makes it easier for project team members to process your information.
Include the following in your project status updates:
- Issues that have to be addressed. This is an opportunity for the project manager to make sure that important items can be discussed.
- Activities from the previous week. Updates from the previous week keeps people in the loop and informed on what’s happening with the project.
- Activities for the upcoming week. This section of the memo helps set expectations for the week with all parties involved.
The last step in the process is to file the updates for your records. Include the date that the update was written. Having a paper trail will make life a lot easier in the event that the project does go wrong somewhere in the process. It can also be an effective tool to hold people accountable as well.
John P. Kreiss is a management consultant dedicated to serving the particular business consulting needs of Real Estate and Construction companies of all sizes. He specializes in executive coaching, conducting high-level marketing and management audits, establishing recruitment programs, and conducting executive compensation and employee surveys. He also advises clients on business strategy, marketing, employee compensation, relocation, outplacement, and other human resources issues. You can reach John here.
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