Preconstruction is often misunderstood as simply creating an estimate for the customer, but this field stretches far beyond that. It is a very strategic process that can help determine how a project is going to succeed.
Earlier in the year, one of our Directors of Preconstruction, Sam Potts, was interviewed on the Construction Genius in an episode titled, “From Napkin Sketch to Shovel in the Ground.” She explains that preconstruction is not just about laying numbers out on a page, it also plays a critical role in the success of the project itself.
During this episode, Sam lays out many components that go into preconstruction and what the role truly involves. She emphasizes that one of the most important things throughout the pre-construction process is truly understanding the needs and wants of the customer. This is one of the main goals of preconstruction, because first you have to align the budget in a way that maximizes the customer’s return on investment, and second, find the most cost-effective way to satisfy their needs and define what success means to them. Building a trusting relationship with customers is a huge part of the preconstruction process and to do so, you also have to be transparent with them and always keep an open mind. This helps the customer see that you are going to help them through every step of the process. Sam joked that our project and preconstruction managers get so in sync with the customer’s needs that it can be hard to tell which team they are on, in the best way possible.
While yes, preconstruction is about getting that estimate and setting the teams in the field up for success, it is also about building a trusting relationship with the customer. To hear more from Sam and get a deeper dive into everything pre-construction, be sure to listen to the Construction Genius podcast episode. From Napkin Sketch to Shovel in the Ground: The Pre-Con Process That Sets Your Field Teams Up to Win
Like what you’re hearing and want to join our pre-construction team? We’re hiring! https://jpcullen.com/careers/
-Author: Kasia London, Marketing Intern
About Kasia: I am an intern through Blackhawk Technical College and a Senior at Clinton Junior Senior High School. I am using this experience as a learning tool to help prepare for my future, as one day I hope to go into agricultural business and marketing.
