The best way to ensure client satisfaction in a construction project is by incorporating a well-defined quality control process. Strict adherence to the process results in improved delivery of the work, leading to lesser rework and higher profits for the firm.
We have listed five tips that can help improve a construction firm’s focus on quality control.
1. Establish Standards
Every project is unique and requires different quality standards based on the contractual stipulations and the type of construction.
Being able to measure and assess the quality of work done is a step towards enhanced quality. For this to happen, it is essential to set standards in an easily understandable and feasible way.
Quality standards generally involve the combination of information from sources such as:
• International, national, and local building codes
• Third-party testing and auditing standards such as ISO: 9000
• The newest lawsuits and lawsuits related to the quality of various building materials
• Recommendations and requirements from the manufacturers of all products and equipment used in a project.
2. Control the Workflow
A variety of quality control inspections and tests are required before, during, and after every construction phase. Shifting the onus towards the later stages of construction and considering all the QC checks can be performed just before the final permitting inspection, will result in overlooked issues.
For instance, problems related to electrical and wiring systems need to be identified during and right after the installation. While the subcontractors are still engaged and available for rework, recognizing these issues would prevent any significant design changes or demolition for the repairs.
Besides, a number of QC planning software are available that facilitate easy identification of the vulnerable areas to test and put a focus on.
3. Implement Independent Audits
Tests and audits conducted by independent third-party players are considered the best option for maintaining high-quality standards. Any project manager or skilled builder, irrespective of their prowess, may overlook certain questionable matters.
A third-party provider equipped with all the advanced testing tools will allow the contractor to double-check every work after completion.
Contractors undertaking government and infrastructure projects are required to submit these tests by any means, so putting in some capital to keep the quality under check for other industrial and commercial projects is considered a wise investment.
4. Embrace Construction Technology
Different construction productivity software tools are available to tackle the common causes encountered during the quality control process. Seamless communication between the various parties involved in the same project reduces the chances of miscommunication, outdated documents, and other similar problems.
Bringing all the project documents, drawings, and relevant reports to a single software platform for collaboration and viewing can help eliminate conflicts and disagreements to smoothen the execution.
Also, using software tools that allow planning of quality control audits to ensure the construction team hits every milestone within the specified time.
5. Seek or Create Skilled Labor
The skill of the workers involved directly affects the quality of construction. Even the best firm won’t be able to stick to its quality standards with an inexperienced workforce.
When it comes to working on sophisticated infrastructure and commercial projects, one must have an on-site experience as intensive education programs contribute very little to the required skills.
When a minute detail like the amount of air mixed into concrete or the depth of a weld can create a major difference between success and failure, construction firms should not dispel the idea of investing in extensive training courses to keep their workforce abreast with all the necessary skills.
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