The Role of Key Subcontractors and Vendors in the Preconstruction Process

Few subcontractors and vendors actually deliver the value they are capable of during the preconstruction process.

Raymond Braswell Profile Picture
Share
Contributors David Brown

The reasons are two-fold:  

  1. Many subs and vendors are too use to getting very prescriptive construction documents then providing a bid which is more about counting, math and science.
  2. Many GCs are too use to sending out documents in exchange for a bid which is more about administrative management.   

The "Big Question" that must be ultimately answered by the team is:

What must be on the drawings in the end that isn't on there now?


 

 

OPPORTUNITIES

Subcontractors:  There is a lot of opportunity in the market for the subcontractor or vendor who can understand design intent and develop a detailed conceptual estimate that integrates with the general contractor's model.

General Contractors:  There is just as much opportunity for the GC's Conceptual Estimator who can create a detailed estimate for the major sub-trades including quantities and key assumptions.  And the Preconstruction Manager who can then work with a select group of subcontractors to review these details with them ensuring they are aligned on the estimated pricing and scheduling.  Over time this will make both parties stronger.  

 


Learn more about building Advanced Preconstruction Services and Business Development capabilities along with other General Contractor Solutions for profitable growth in all economic conditions.   


Preconstruction Services as a Growth Strategy
Dominate your competition by contracting for preconstruction services while projects are still concepts on scratch paper. This series of videos will look at the preconstruction process from the perspective of the Project Owner, Architect, and Contractor. ...

Preconstruction Services as a Growth Strategy
Dominate your competition by contracting for preconstruction services while projects are still concepts on scratch paper. This series of videos will look at the preconstruction process from the perspective of the Project Owner, Architect, and Contractor. ...

Field Productivity Grand Slam
When contractors are truly successful at improving their field productivity it is like Mickey Mantle’s pivotal Grand Slam during game 5 of the 1953 World Series. The bases are loaded. You are at bat. The Big Four productivity home runs:
Sun Tzu and The Art of War for Contractors & Careers
Success in all aspects of life has to do with how effectively you align your opportunities and resources.
Definition - Skill
The Ability to do something. Sometimes combined with performing to a certain level (standard / competency) and possibly the verification of that performance (certification).