A construction project manager is expected to know everything that’s happening on a project, including how many defects a site has. A defect – whether in design, materials or workmanship – is a problem in the construction process that can lead to failures in parts of the structure being built. But construction projects are very complex, making visibility over defects difficult.
A project can have multiple on and off-site teams, as well as many stakeholders and dozens of contractors – from single craftspeople to the largest primary contractor. Inconsistent communication only adds to this complexity, with our recent research finding that half (51%) of construction leaders use a combination of in-person, telephone, email, and/or paper-based processes to inform the individuals responsible for repairs. Lacking a centralised way of viewing and sharing data makes keeping track of defects challenging – particularly as many stakeholders are spread out and working remotely due to COVID-19.
Tracking defects in-app
To keep track of defects and repairs, many construction companies use a spreadsheet tool, like Excel. But this approach isn’t user friendly, doesn’t support collaboration, and is very open to human error. Finalcad is different because it is built around ease-of-use and shows how many defects remain open in a simple, easy to understand way. Defects can also be searched for under categories – such as zone, sector, company, data or trade. So, if a project manager wants to see how many electrical defects remain open, they can do so in a few taps or clicks.
The Finalcad platform can also provide statistics that give an in-depth overview of the project and whether it is meeting its KPIs. For instance, the app can tell a user:
- - The time left before the end of a project phase
- - By company, how many defects were caused
- - By company, how many defects were identified and treated
- - How many controls have been conducted
- - The project progress in % metrics
- - Project progress by trade
- - What works are in progress
Centralising project management
This approach removes complicated, time-draining steps of filling-in and downloading excel sheets, and searching for information. Instead, this data can be accessed in one centralised place and can be updated by everyone on the project. This boosts collaborative working as everyone can access and understand this information and so align on priorities. Project managers and other stakeholders can also easily keep track of whether or not defects are being resolved – so it’s also a useful tool for deciding who gets an invite to the end of project barbecue!
To find out more about how Finalcad can help the running of your construction project, contact us:
