“Roadblocks to Results, Getting Project Management Right”

John R. Jefferis, LEED AP, CCM, MPM, our Director of Project Management, explains this service we provide, how our Project Managers will help guide your project, and the ways we solve problems that clients may face:

Through effective Project Management, we are diligent to be organized, thoughtful and proactive throughout the design and construction of your project. Successful Project Managers consistently assess the emerging opportunities, challenges and potential risks that may arise. 

Maintaining a detailed schedule is one key element that we have instituted to keep track of where we are and where we are going throughout the design process. As I think back to my high school football career where there was a sign as we walked onto the field that read “Everyone has a plan, until you get hit”, a quote from Mike Tyson. A plan, a schedule, and directions are all great to have, but what do we do as professionals when a situation does not go as planned? How do we work through it, how do we get back up and forge ahead? This can be quite daunting depending on the situation; however, think ahead, know how to pivot and work closely with the design team and Owner to resolve any situation that you get hit with during the project. Through our dedicated Project Management staff, we are focused on increasing the likelihood of success through any adversity.  

Throughout the duration of a project, there will be times where challenges arise and working through these situations is critical. Acting with integrity a word that comes to mind in approaching sensitive topics with our clients. Being honest and consistent in handling difficult conversations is of utmost importance to our firm.

There are many times throughout the journey of a design process where our design team has been hit with a situation that is not good news for the Owner that impacts schedules or finances. We have embraced the integrity of the situation to be open with the Owner on the issue at hand, find a solution, or multiple that will resolve the problem with the time and cost that it will take to work through the issue. Once all facts are known, including time and money, present the situation to the Owner and work through the solutions with the client to determine how to proceed.

Owners want our team to lead the design and be the experts in our disciplines while being honest, truthful, and consistent with our communication and design and upholding the integrity of the project. Owners want a team that can lead while getting hit and continue to work seamlessly toward a successful project!