_________________________________________________________________________________________________ Main interview
So , in real terms , how are Tallal and his team able to turn projects of this scale around so quickly ? The answer is simple . The company tackles projects through a piecemeal process . “ Let ’ s say when it comes to filing the drawings , we will file only the part that is enough to get us started , like the demolition phase , instead of doing the whole design set , which takes months . Then , we share with the architect or the owner what we think are the challenges , and then our proposals to overcome them . This is our approach not only to the design , but the entire process . This method is also helpful as the owner learns to trust us through our proactive involvement , which also empowers our decision-making .”
The bigger picture
Considering the implications the pandemic has had on the construction industry , an approach like this seems a logical response to ensuring a swift project turnaround , so how come it isn ’ t widely practiced ? Tallal explains that there ’ s a lack of coordination between different trades . “ If there ’ s a design change , you call the architect , the architect comes forward , they look at it , and then they suggest what needs to be done . This is time consuming . A small issue could take weeks or months to resolve , but in a project where you have seven months to finish building , these issues have to be dealt with quicker than that . I believe that as a contractor , you have to already look at the potential challenges and have a solution ready .
“ It ’ s also important to keep in mind that the buildings we work on have a lot of infrastructure work involved ; the plumbing , electrical , mechanical , and fire safety systems of the building have to be changed . So , if a contractor brings in his own engineer , it could make it easier for the work to take place , because then they have a successful working relationship . So that ’ s also important ,” he shares , adding that , typically , architects might suggest their own tradespeople to work on the project , which introduces a possible dissonance in working relationships . “ If I have my own mechanical and electrical engineer to resolve an issue , I simply message them over text or email . However , if I work with someone I ’ m not familiar with , they might ask for meetings first to have a look at the issue , then head back to the office to suggest a solution .
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