How to Effectively Implement a Cost Management Plan for Your Construction Project

In the construction industry, it’s particularly important to maintain a clear and accurate idea of the financial elements of each project. The following information provides some advice on developing an effective cost management plan for a construction project.

Potential Problems

• Lack of financial information: Without an effective cost management plan, you may spend much of the project not knowing where you stand financially. This could lead to bad decision making or inability to make progress.
• Restricted cash flow: If you don’t manage your costs correctly, you could find yourself in a position where cash flow is restricted. When this happens, you may not be able to purchase needed equipment and materials or hire subcontractors and specialized laborers needed to finish the job.
• Unpleasant outcomes: Delays, material errors, and other problems could lead to a very unpleasant surprise at the end of the project: no profit. In the worst cases, you may even lose money on the job. Having an effective cost management plan operating throughout the project helps ensure these kinds of problems don’t occur and rob you of the reward for your hard work.

Implementing a Cost Management Plan

• Invest in cost management software or a centralized database where every employee and department can record their financial data. This allows managers the opportunity to see financial data on a wide scale and avoids having vital information lost or inaccessible in outdated programs, notebooks, or receipts.
• Ensure open communication between all members of management and employees at all levels. Collaboration and communication will be vital to ensuring financial goals are met and the customer is satisfied with the job.
• Recognize potential problems. Analyze and assess the financial information you have to determine potential issues or problems that could affect the job, such as cash flow restrictions.
• Track carefully. Keep separate files for current invoices, late invoices, payments, and other important records.

Construction professionals, including finance and accounting personnel, can rely on Construction Monitor for expert advice and information on the latest industry standards and developments. Contact us today for more information on developing an effective cost management plan for construction projects.