_____________________________________________________________________________________________ Supply chain
project timeline . The flow of the project needs to be established during the design phase , effectively communicated to all team members , and religiously adhered to in the field . Any deviations from the original plan , should they be required , will require comprehensive review and buy-in from all parties to ensure the schedule and cost impacts are mitigated . For example , should the schedule dictate , it may be required to sequence rack installation with a buildable mix that allows you to chase the wear slab contractor out of the warehouse space . Access , traffic patterns , lighting , ventilation , pour sequencing , cure time and loading considerations will all need to be evaluated to successfully implement this approach . This approach requires thoughtful planning and flexibility to perform and isn ’ t always ideal , but it has the potential to make a significant difference when executed well .
5 . Modular construction
In new projects , the strategic use of
prefabrication and modular construction can provide schedule certainty from the onset . While this approach may require a higher upfront investment from procurement , any item that arrives pre-assembled will save construction teams time in the field .
Looking to the future
Thankfully , the global supply chain is on the mend . Long lead times and lengthened construction schedules will remain a reality , at least for the foreseeable future . Still , project teams can gain back some control over their timelines by implementing different management strategies and being transparent about market conditions with building owners . ■
4 . Finding alternatives
Balancing lead times and schedule deadlines can be tricky , even under normal circumstances . With the current state of the industry and supply availability , building owners and project teams must be nimble and prepared to make changes . Keeping schedules on track may require finding alternate materials or vendors or making design adjustments that help protect the schedule . Consider the following questions :
■ Am I willing to accept my preferred vendor ’ s lead time ? Are there other vendors who can deliver faster ?
■ Is it cost-effective to pay higher upfront costs in exchange for shorter lead times and faster completion ?
■ Are there viable alternative building materials ?
■ Is there a design aspect I can valueengineer out of my current project ? Can it be added in future expansions or renovations ?
Daniel Stilling www . stellar . net
Daniel Stilling is the Logistics Operations Manager at Stellar , a fully integrated design , engineering , construction , refrigeration and mechanical services firm serving commercial , industrial and public sector markets across the United States . More than 750 Stellar employees create award-winning food processing plants , refrigerated warehouses , distribution centers , commercial buildings and military facilities . In addition to its Jacksonville , Florida , headquarters , Stellar offers service and support locations throughout the United States .
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