Before the first shovel hits the ground and the first beam is lifted into the air, there’s a crucial phase that sets the tone for every successful construction project: pre-construction. At Crain Construction, we know that successful projects are built on more than just brick and mortar. They’re built on preparation, foresight, and collaboration. Our pre-construction team is at the heart of this process, ensuring every detail is thoughtfully considered before the construction phase begins.
At Crain, we’ve built our reputation on a proactive approach to problem-solving, identifying issues before they arise and setting projects up for success. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities for our pre-construction team, and no two days are alike. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the unique aspects of the pre-construction role and why it’s such a crucial part of the work we do at Crain.
An Inside Look: Pre-Construction Planning at Crain Construction
While every day is different, there are a few common threads that run through the work of our pre-construction team:
1. Establishing a Solid Foundation by Getting Involved Early in Projects
One of the unique aspects of working in pre-construction is how early our team gets involved in a project. From the first concept to project takeoffs, we’re there from the very beginning. This early involvement is crucial because it allows us to collaborate with architects, designers, and clients to shape the project before it even starts. We help manage costs through creative procurement, flag potential budget issues, and find opportunities to maximize the value of a project. By getting in early, we’re able to set realistic expectations and make sure everything is lined up for a smooth construction process.
2. Embracing Collaboration and Working with Every Stakeholder
If there’s one word that defines pre-construction, it’s collaboration. Our pre-con team works closely with just about everyone involved in a project—owners, architects, and trade partners. We break down project plans into specific scopes of work, making sure everyone understands what they’re responsible for. We also communicate costs with project owners and look for potential savings, keeping the budget on track. This collaboration doesn’t stop once the planning is done—it continues throughout the project, ensuring that everyone stays aligned and that the project runs smoothly from start to finish.
3. Building Strong Relationships from the Start
At Crain Construction, we know that building relationships is just as important as building structures. That starts from day one in pre-construction. First impressions matter, and our pre-con team makes sure we set the right tone with clients, owners, and developers. By focusing on clear communication, honesty, and transparency, we establish trust from the beginning. It’s this foundation of trust that allows us to build strong, lasting relationships with our clients—something we take pride in. After all, our purpose statement is “building relationships and structures to last a lifetime,” and that’s exactly what our pre-con team sets out to do every day.
4. Solving Problems Before They Happen
One of the most important aspects of pre-construction is identifying potential problems before they ever have a chance to impact the project. Our pre-con team essentially “builds” the project virtually before any work begins on-site. We dive into the project plans, think through the construction methods, and anticipate any challenges we might face along the way. Whether it’s scheduling, staffing, or budget concerns, we work to find solutions before they become real issues. This proactive approach is what helps us keep projects running smoothly and on time.
5. Always Learning and Adapting
Working in pre-construction is a role that requires a lot of patience and a desire to keep learning. Even the most experienced estimators and planners know that there’s always something new to learn, whether it’s a new building code, a more efficient process, or deeper knowledge of the trades.
At Crain, we encourage our pre-con team to stay curious and always look for ways to improve. It’s this dedication to learning and growth that allows us to continue delivering exceptional results for our clients.
Learn More About Crain’s Pre-Con Approach and Career Opportunities
At Crain Construction, our pre-construction team plays a vital role in every project we take on. Their ability to plan ahead, collaborate with all stakeholders, and solve problems before they arise is what sets us apart. Without their dedication and expertise, our projects wouldn’t run as smoothly—or be as successful.
If you’re looking to grow your career in commercial construction and want to be part of a team that values its people as much as its projects, Crain Construction might be the perfect fit for you. Head over to our careers page to learn more about what it’s like to work with us and check out our current job openings. We’d love to hear from you!
