5 Tips for an Efficient Construction Change Order Process
5 Tips for an Efficient Construction Change Order Process
Change orders in construction refer to any deviations from the original contract, including deadline, material and cost changes. They are an unavoidable part of working within the construction industry due to the frequent modifications that are made throughout a project. If the change order process is not managed effectively, it can lead to increased costs, projects delays, lost revenue, and unhappy customers.
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Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to ensure a more efficient and organized change order process.
Identify Potential change orders immediately
The longer you wait to report potential change orders, the more complicated it will become. If you spot out possible change orders at the beginning stages of a project, you will save yourself from stress later on and prevent any lost time. If you do identify prospective changes, be sure to document and keep records of them! You will thank yourself later.
Develop standard change order templates
Developing a standard change order form not only makes the process less complicated but it also saves time and resources. If you are constantly changing the process every time a new change order is needed, you will cause yourself unnecessary stress. Standard forms will allow the process to be repeated and will keep everything consistent. Mobile software with built-in change order templates can help you achieve this by providing you with the same standardized form every time.
Take photos to document change order conditions
Photographs are an essential part of the change order process. Construction site conditions can change quickly due to weather or other unforeseen events. Because of the rapid nature of these site changes, actions might need to be made without approval. Photographs will document the changes and serve as proof when you have to provide evidence of why a change was made. This will reduce the chance of the owner denying a change order claim and will make your life a lot easier.
Use a project software
One of the most useful steps you can take to improve your change order process is implementing a mobile construction software. Project software streamlines the change order process, making it much easier for all team members. Project software such as eSUB takes care of all the details needed in change orders, ensuring that nothing is forgotten. It improves collaboration by giving all on-site workers access to the change order documents so that everyone has the most accurate information. Once the change orders are completed and approved by both parties, it alerts everyone on the team so that everybody stays updated. Another useful feature is the deadline notifications. Mobile software notifies team members when due dates are approaching which lessens the chance of missing any deadlines and keeps everyone accountable.
Although the change order process can be complicated and time-consuming, it doesn’t have to be if you follow the right steps. Be meticulous, develop a standard system, and implement mobile software and I guarantee you will see a world of change.
Sources:
https://www.construct-ed.com/managing-construction-change-orders/
https://www.softwareadvice.com/resources/construction-change-order-process/
