The commercial construction industry has weathered unprecedented supply chain challenges in recent years. While the initial shockwaves of the pandemic have subsided, lingering disruptions continue to affect critical aspects of commercial construction projects. For example, areas like mechanical and electrical systems still experience frequent issues.
The reality is that navigating supply chain challenges isn’t new. The timeless principles of dealing with supply chain challenges—early identification and diligent follow-up—still apply. However, with projects becoming more complex and technology playing a bigger role, applying these principles requires a new level of critical thinking and planning.
At Crain Construction, we believe in a proactive approach. We emphasize collaboration, creative problem-solving, clear communication, and strong relationships to overcome supply chain disruptions and keep your project on track. Here are a few proven strategies we use, along with real-world examples to showcase their effectiveness:
1. Navigating Lead Times in Preconstruction
We prioritize proactive planning during preconstruction to anticipate and mitigate potential supply chain disruptions. By engaging early with suppliers and subcontractors, we gather crucial lead time information for key materials well in advance. This allows us to provide realistic timelines to project owners and strategize early releases for critical project phases or materials.
Project Example: For our Feintool expansion project, securing electrical switchgear posed a significant challenge due to extended lead times. By leveraging early engagement and proactive planning, we worked closely with the owner to order necessary equipment well ahead of contract execution, ensuring timely delivery and avoiding project delays.
2. Securing Resources Early With Trade Partners
Proactive thinking lays the foundation, but swift action is equally crucial. Acting quickly ensures a smoother flow of materials and avoids last-minute scrambling for resources, ultimately keeping the project on track and within budget. Our approach also minimizes the risk of price increases or material shortages that can plague delayed decisions.
Project Example: For the Specialty Dental Brand Headquarters, we conducted early buyouts on supplies and proactively ordered materials to manage cost escalation. The team also collaborated with subcontractors to find creative solutions when supply chain issues doubled the expected arrival timeline for HVAC units. This collaboration ensured alternative solutions were explored and implemented quickly, keeping the project moving forward.
3. Ensuring Steady and Accurate Delivery of Materials
Maintaining a close eye on placed orders throughout the entire procurement process is vital for overcoming supply chain disruptions. By proactively checking on order statuses and communicating consistently with suppliers, we can identify potential delays early on. This allows for timely adjustments to the project schedule or exploration of alternative materials if necessary.
Project Example: The Prancing Horse of Nashville Ferrari Dealership was constructed during the global shipping crisis. To source materials from around the globe, our team developed multiple contingency plans to ensure furnishings from Italy, specialty glass from Spain, and lighting features from France were all delivered on time. This proactive monitoring and planning ensured the project remained on schedule despite the challenging circumstances.
Build with Confidence with Crain Construction
Navigating today’s construction landscape requires a proactive and collaborative approach. At Crain Construction, we’re committed to working closely with our clients and trade partners to overcome supply chain challenges and deliver exceptional results. We believe in clear communication, transparency, and creative problem-solving to ensure your project stays on track and within budget.
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Contact us today to learn more about how Crain Construction can help you achieve your construction goals.
