Teamwork on construction sites

[edit] Introductione

A general contractor faces many challenges on a building site. Teamwork on construction sites entails proper planning, definition of the goals and objectives, assignment of roles and responsibilities, and collaborative work processes.

Here is a look through the top 3 benefits of teamwork for general contractors:

[edit] Increased efficiency and productivity

Planning: The behavioural theories of management have proven that collaborative teamwork and an inclusive work environment increase the productivity of workers. Hence, construction projects bring together different consultants and contractors of different disciplines for the execution of a common goal. This necessitates, therefore, the application of teamwork in the sequencing and scheduling of works, coordination of tasks and allocation of resources.

Collaboration: Collaborative teamwork facilitates the achievement of the project objectives as per the specifications of the business owner and the stakeholders in a timely manner and within the budget. Moreover, efficiency on the construction site increases as a result of the collective contribution of diverse ideas in the brainstorming of methods of streamlining processes and mutually coming up with the best way of working.

Innovation: Additionally, it promotes innovation since the team members can learn from each other, share knowledge, obtain feedback and grow in their respective trades.

[edit] Enhanced construction safety and risk management

Teamwork also involves proper planning and management of risk and occupational hazards such as bodily injury and property damage. When contractors work together as a team, they identify risks and assign them to different parties. Members of the team are also accountable not only for their actions but also for the actions and safety of their colleagues.

Risk management and safety improve through the apportionment of general liability by the business owner and the general contractor to the other contractors. Furthermore, contractors are free to seek guidance on any concerns as pertains to the safety work done, instead of taking unnecessary risks and causing material and property damage as well as bodily injury for themselves and other contractors on site.

[edit] Fewer disputes

Teamwork promotes open communication channels among all the members of the team, and address the ideas and concerns of all the consultants, the general contractor, and the subcontractors with equal importance. This, therefore, reduces the possibility of claims since matters are managed and addressed before they occur and impact the project; and general liability is assigned to different members of the team.

Litigation: It also promotes a good working relationship between the team members, based on mutual respect and accountability. This reduces the chances of adversarial litigations in a bid to maintain friendships and cooperation. Additionally, teamwork offers a platform for brainstorming on complex issues thereby arriving at the best decisions.

Being prepared: Even with the best preparation and teamwork, things can go wrong. General contractors can find themselves facing issues or worse still, expensive litigation and costs.

A possible solution to this is to take out liability insurance cover. General Liability Insurance might be the best option when it comes to covering a business and its assets including staff or sole contractors. Some form of insurance is often a mandatory requirement in many countries and states. Contractors' all-risk insurance is an option as well as Contract works insurance or other forms that suit the specific case.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings

• Building Users' Insurance Against Latent Defects.
• Contractors' all-risk insurance.
• Contract works insurance.
• Collateral warranties.
• Contract v tort.
• Defects.
• Defects liability period.
• Defective Premises - Liability and Measure of Damages.
• Defective Premises Act.
• Design and build.
• Design and build - pros and cons.
• Directors and officers insurance.
• Fitness for purpose.
• Flood insurance.
• Insurance for building design and construction.
• Insurance terminology.
• Integrated project insurance.
• JCT Clause 6.5.1 Insurance.
• Joint and several liability.
• Latent defects insurance.
• Legal indemnities.
• Making sure your builder has appropriate insurance.
• Professional Indemnity Insurance.
• Public liability insurance.
• Residual value insurance.
• Reasonable skill and care.
• Single project professional indemnity insurance