Navigating the complexities of a construction project requires not only a sharp attention to detail but also a deep commitment to collaboration, foresight, and adaptability. Mid-project disruptions, although common, can lead to delays, increased costs, and compromised quality. However, with the right planning and practices in place, these disruptions can be significantly reduced. Below, we outline three crucial steps that main contractors can take to ensure smoother project execution and reduce the risk of mid-project setbacks.

1. Engage with Subcontractors and Stakeholders Who Value Teamwork

One of the most underestimated factors in preventing disruptions is the careful selection of subcontractors and stakeholders. While technical expertise is essential, the ability to collaborate and work harmoniously with others is equally critical. Subcontractors who value teamwork will be more aligned with the project’s overarching goals, resulting in smoother communication, better coordination, and fewer bottlenecks.

Why is this so important?  

Construction projects are vast, with various moving parts and multiple trades working simultaneously. Without a unified approach, small misalignments can have a domino effect, delaying other parts of the project. Subcontractors who view themselves as part of the larger team, rather than isolated entities, will be more proactive in ensuring their work complements the broader goals. These professionals are more likely to communicate effectively with other trades and respond swiftly to changes or challenges, reducing friction and ensuring steady progress.

Building a culture of collaboration  

Promote a collaborative culture by setting the tone early in the project. This can be achieved by having open and transparent pre-construction meetings where every subcontractor and stakeholder is encouraged to share their insights, concerns, and expectations. When everyone feels valued and heard from the start, the project benefits from a shared sense of responsibility. Furthermore, working with companies that are founded on strong values, like Shanco’s dedication to family values and building lasting relationships, ensures that teamwork and commitment are not just ideals but are actively practiced on the ground.

 2. Involve Everyone in Planning

Planning is the backbone of any successful project. However, many disruptions arise when the planning process is siloed or when key players are left out of critical decision-making discussions. A robust construction programme, which outlines everything from timelines to logistics, must involve all relevant parties, from the project managers to the subcontractors who will execute the work.

The ripple effect of poor planning  

When a subcontractor is not included in the pre-construction stages, they might not fully understand the sequence of works, the critical handover points, or the expectations for their role. This can cause delays when the team is not prepared or in a position to begin their tasks as scheduled. Furthermore, changes that were expected in the planning stage may not have been communicated, leading to confusion and misalignment once the project is underway.

The importance of inclusive planning  

To avoid this, ensure that every subcontractor and stakeholder is part of the main planning phase. This inclusion allows them to highlight potential concerns, suggest more efficient workflows, and align their efforts with the project’s objectives. It also fosters a sense of ownership and accountability, as every party is aware of the overall timeline and their individual contribution to the project’s success. Collaborative planning can include elements like site sequencing, logistics coordination, and timeline setting. This process not only helps avoid misunderstandings and disputes, but also creates a comprehensive roadmap that everyone can follow.

Moreover, detailed logistical plans that consider the movement of materials, site access, and the interdependence of trades can prevent delays caused by poor resource management. Involving subcontractors in these discussions ensures that any potential clashes or inefficiencies are flagged and resolved early on, further minimising the chance of costly mid-project disruptions.

 3. Maintain Weekly Engagement and Set Short-Term Goals

Once the project is underway, regular communication becomes the lifeblood of success. Weekly meetings with all stakeholders—main contractors, subcontractors, and project managers—are essential to keep the project on track. This frequent engagement allows for the review of short-term goals, the discussion of potential issues, and the identification of areas where adjustments might be needed.

Why weekly check-ins matter  

Construction projects are dynamic, with situations on-site changing rapidly. Without regular communication, minor issues can quickly escalate into larger problems that cause significant delays. Weekly meetings serve as an opportunity for real-time problem-solving and ensure that all parties agree. They allow for quick course corrections if the project deviates from the plan and provide a forum for addressing any emerging concerns, such as safety risks, material shortages, or design changes.

Setting achievable short-term goals  

Breaking down the project into short-term, manageable goals makes it easier to track progress and ensure that everyone stays accountable. These goals can range from completing specific stages of construction to ensuring that certain materials are delivered on time. By setting these milestones, teams are better equipped to maintain focus, and subcontractors are more likely to meet deadlines. Additionally, achieving these smaller goals creates a sense of momentum and accomplishment, keeping morale high throughout the project’s duration.

Accountability and flexibility  

Regular engagement is not only about maintaining accountability but also about fostering flexibility. Construction projects rarely go exactly as planned, and unforeseen challenges will arise. By having these weekly meetings, teams can address issues as they happen, rather than waiting for them to become more disruptive. It also creates an environment of trust, where stakeholders feel comfortable raising concerns or proposing alternative solutions without fear of blame or repercussion.

Implementing These Steps

To effectively implement these three steps, main contractors need to cultivate a mindset shift across their teams, emphasising proactive planning, inclusion, and constant engagement. The goal is to create a project culture where every party, from the stakeholders to the subcontractors, is aligned with the overall objectives, understands their role, and is fully invested in the project’s success. 

At Shanco, we pride ourselves on embodying these principles. We believe in nurturing meaningful relationships built on mutual trust, a commitment to quality, and a dedication to ensuring the safe and timely completion of every project. Our approach, rooted in family values and collaboration, fosters a working environment where each party feels valued, heard, and accountable.

Ultimately, reducing mid-project disruptions isn’t just about crisis management; it’s about building firm foundations from day one. By prioritising teamwork, inclusive planning, and ongoing engagement, you’ll not only minimise disruptions but also enhance the efficiency and quality of your projects. In the competitive construction industry, where time is money and efficiency is the benchmark of success, these steps are not just optional—they are essential.

Embrace these strategies today and create a future where excellence in groundworks and construction is not only a goal, but a guaranteed reality.