Three Ways Project Managers Can Ruin a Construction Project (and How to Prevent Them)

Managing a construction project successfully requires juggling multiple responsibilities while keeping the core objectives—on scope, on budget, and on schedule—in balance. However, when one of these factors falls off track, it can spell disaster for the project and the team. In a recent episode of The DYOJO Podcast, we explored common pitfalls that lead to what we call the “carousel of project management lackluster outcomes.” Here are three ways project managers can derail a project and actionable steps to prevent these issues.

1. Failing to Maintain Project ScopeA project completed on time and within budget is not enough if it falls short of meeting the agreed-upon scope. Cutting corners or neglecting quality control to save time or costs might seem like a quick fix, but it can damage your reputation and result in long-term consequences.
Prevention:

• Clear Communication: Ensure all parties understand the project scope before starting. Document every detail in contracts and agreements.
• Regular Quality Checks: Conduct ongoing inspections to ensure work aligns with the project specifications.
• Scope Change Protocols: Establish a process for handling scope changes, including tracking legitimate change orders and ensuring they’re communicated to stakeholders.

2. Losing Control of the ScheduleCompleting a project on scope and on budget but missing the deadline can erode client trust, especially if delays result in financial penalties or impact future work opportunities.
Prevention:

• Realistic Scheduling: Develop a project timeline with input from subcontractors and team members to ensure feasibility.
• Proactive Updates: Use project management software to track progress and flag potential delays early.
• Buffer Time: Build contingency time into your schedule to account for unforeseen issues.

3. Blowing the BudgetA project finished on schedule and on scope but over budget can devastate profitability. Budget overruns often stem from scope creep, miscommunication, or inefficient resource allocation.
Prevention:

• Detailed Estimations: Start with a realistic budget that accounts for labor, materials, and potential risks.
• Cost Tracking: Regularly review expenses against the budget and address discrepancies immediately.
• Change Order Management: Ensure every additional cost from scope changes is captured and approved through a formal process.

The Bigger Picture: Structuring for SuccessMany of these challenges are not solely the project manager’s responsibility but reflect deeper organizational issues. As The DYOJO Podcast highlights, it’s essential to evaluate whether your systems empower project managers and production teams to succeed. Does your structure enable clear communication from top to bottom? Are your hiring and training practices setting your team up for excellence?
For contractors and business owners, investing in the development of your project managers can pay dividends. Tools like So You Want to Be a Project Manager by Jon Isaacson provide valuable insights for building effective project management skills.

Takeaways for Construction ProfessionalsProject managers play a pivotal role in ensuring construction projects succeed, but common missteps can lead to negative outcomes. By prioritizing scope management, adhering to realistic schedules, and maintaining budget discipline, you can avoid the “carousel of lackluster outcomes” and deliver results that satisfy clients and boost your reputation.
Ready to take your project management skills to the next level? Tune into The DYOJO Podcast for actionable tips, insights, and resources designed to help construction professionals thrive.

Keywords:

1. Construction project management
2. Project management tips
3. Construction project pitfalls
4. Project manager mistakes
5. Successful construction projects