The construction industry is characterized by its huge and complex framework from conception to completion. Therefore, understanding the construction lifecycle is important for effective management as it helps familiarize one with the various project phases. Through this blog, we will explain the construction project lifecycle, point out the problems that may occur during the construction phase, describe the measures that should be taken to evaluate the construction project’s performance and explain the role of PMIS.

Construction Project Lifecycle​

The construction project lifecycle provides a timeline for the various stages of a construction project—from conception to completion. It reinforces that each aspect is planned and implemented systematically throughout the project. The major 5 aspects include- initiation, planning, execution, performance monitoring, and the project is closed.

Every phase acts as a significant stage where all the stakeholders can evaluate whether the project objectives are aligned. A robust understanding of the project lifecycle enables the project manager to foresee challenges and control complex projects. 

Phases in Construction Project Life Cycle 

1. Initiation

The initiation phase defines the first step of carrying out the capital project. The process starts with the project’s purpose, objectives, and feasibility. Key steps include:

• Feasibility Studies: Determining if the project is feasible from all perspectives, from technical, financial, and environmental factors. 
  
  
• Stakeholder Identification: Understanding all the stakeholders involved, from the clients to the contractors.
  
  
• Project Charter Creation: Describe the overall plan and goal of the project and the key deliverables that must be accomplished during the project.

A clear initiation phase sets a strong foundation for the project and may increase the stakeholders’ interest level.

2. Planning

In the planning phase, the project’s blueprint (but most critical) part is laid down. Project managers create an action plan discussing the scope where the project will operate, the financial aspects of the project, the timeline, and the resources needed. Critical activities include:

• Defining Scope: It became important to set limits to reduce the issue of scope creep.
  
  
• Budgeting and Cost Estimation: Assigning human resources, materials, and contingency funds.
  
  
• Resource Allocation: Delegation of tasks and forecasting of human resources requirements.
  
  
• Risk Management: Identifying risks and developing the possibilities to control those. 

When executed well, a detailed plan helps reduce uncertainties across the team.

3. Execution

Execution is the process where concepts turn into results. It comprises organizing resources, managing groups, and supervising construction. Key aspects include:

• On-Site Coordination: Manage coordination between the contractors, engineers, and vendors for smooth operations.
  
  
• Quality Control: Organizations’ standards and specifications for work must be followed.
  
  
• Communication: Regular updates to stakeholders on the project’s progress and challenges.

Effective leadership and adaptability are crucial in the execution phase to handle unwanted challenges and maintain project progress. 

4. Performance and Monitoring

Monitoring ensures that the project remains on track and allows for proactive adjustments; key activities include:

• Performance Metrics Tracking: Cost control and tracking of KPI of schedule and quality.
  
  
• Problem Resolution: Reporting on the cases of variance from the plan as and when they occur.
  
  
• Regular Reporting: Being more realistic and transparent when interacting with stakeholders.

5. Closure

The last and crucial step is the closure of a capital project. An effective closure process prevents restarting, allows things to wrap up, and provides an account of knowledge that can be used in subsequent future projects. Key steps involved are as follows:

• Final Inspections: To ensure the project is of the right quality and meets safety standards.
  
  
• Handover to Client: Offering essential documents and certification.
  
  
• Post-Project Review: Analyzing successes and areas for improvement.

Common Challenges in the Construction Phase

Construction projects encounter challenges after thorough planning as well and can impede progress. Some of those crucial steps which are involved need better planning and execution, which are mentioned below: 

• Resource Management: Coordinating labor, materials, and equipment can be complex, especially when faced with a setback.
  
  
• Communication Gaps: Information discrepancies can lead to errors or setbacks because stakeholders are not on the same page regarding a particular matter.
  
  
• Regulatory Compliance: Local formalities and getting permits add time to the construction process.
  
  
• Budget Overruns: Unexpected expenses may be faced due to material cost fluctuation or changes in project scope. 
  
  
• Risk Management: Identifying and managing risks throughout the project’s lifecycle is often seen as challenging but necessary.

What Metrics help measure Progress on a Construction Project?

Tracking a process is so crucial in ensuring project control. There are specific key performance indicators (KPIs) on which we can measure the progress of any capital project, and they are categorized into three main types:

1.Performance KPIs

• Schedule Variance (SV): Measures the difference between planned and actual timelines.
  
  
• Cost Performance Index (CPI): Evaluates cost efficiency relative to the budget.
  
  
• Work Completion Rate: Tracks the percentage of tasks finished against the overall plan.

2. Quality KPIs

• Defect Density: Monitors the number of defects per unit of work.
  
  
• Rework Rate: Tracks the amount of work that needs to be redone due to errors.

3. Objective KPIs

• Client Satisfaction Scores: Feedback from clients on whether expectations were met.
  
  
• Safety Incidents: Number of on-site accidents or violations.

How Can A PMIS Help Simplify the Construction Life Cycle?

A Project Management Information System (PMIS) plays a crucial role. It makes all the complex phases into seamless planning, execution, monitoring, and closure: 

• Centralized Information: PMIS helps store all important data and information in one unified place, making it easily accessible for all stakeholders.
  
  
• Enhanced Communication: Facilitates communication among team members through shared platforms for updates and discussions.
  
  
• Real-time Monitoring: Allows for real-time progress tracking against schedules and budgets, allowing effective decision-making.
  
  
• Risk Management Tools: Provides frameworks for identifying risks early and developing mitigation strategies.
  
  
• Documentation Management: Streamlines document storage and retrieval processes, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Work With the Experts at OnIndus Construction Project Management Technology Advisory

Managing huge construction projects requires time, expertise, and the right tools. OnIndus focuses exclusively on providing customized project management solutions and advisory services. Our excellent industry experience can assist in adopting unique, effective PMIS systems to undertake capital projects efficiently.

Whether you need help with systems integration or advice on performance optimization, the OnIndus team facilitates and ensures a smooth transformation for your construction processes.

Conclusion

The construction project lifecycle is an evolving process that requires extensive planning, implementation, monitoring, and control. Therefore, understanding each phase and utilizing advanced tools like PMIS is crucial to finding ways to overcome challenges and efficiently drive success out of each capital project. 

Here at OnIndus, we strive to provide construction professionals with the knowledge and resources to succeed strategically. Contact us today to start optimizing your construction project management plan and taking your projects to the next level of performance.