17.8 Integrated Master Planning for Destination Development - Part 8 – Site Execution

First before getting into the Site Execution lets remind ourselves what Integrated Master Planning is all about.

Integrated Master Planning - the process of Orchestrating the vast range of technical and professional disciplines in order to execute a development. This includes marketing, environmental analysis, programing, physical planning, economic planning, social planning, execution and operations planning.

In discussing each part of the Integrated Master Planning for Destination Development process, I will use the same methodology which is answering the following questions.

1.   What is the objective of this phase of the process?

To realize the physical construction on the ground such that it follows the design and yields the end result that is envisioned in the business.    

2.  What expertise is involved in this phase of the process?

Generally the site project / construction management team of quantity surveyor, engineers, architect and landscape architect.  Some sensitive sites such as green field or coastal sites, an environmental specialist is a much needed expert to have on the ground.   

3.  What are some of the common mistakes?

There are a few very common mistakes that I see repeated over and over.  First the start of construction is well before construction drawings are finished.  Not only will the final cost fluctuate quite a bit, but quite likely it will fluctuate even more due to abortive works.

A second common mistake is to set unrealistic schedules for construction.  On one hand contractors know they cannot achieve the schedule escalates the price taking into account liquidated damages that will eventually be imposed.  Also in order to try and meet unrealistic schedules usually means incomplete drawings and a significant amount of changes and hence more cost over runs and ultimately more time delays. 

The last common mistake is generally from companies not used to doing construction and calling tender.  Tender can be a very lengthy process going back and forth to clarify and try to establish the best price.  In addition usually to award large sums, board approvals will be required.  Proper timing needs to be schedule for this process.

4.  Any other issues that relate to this phase?

Too often showing work starting on the ground needs to be done for public relations reasons both internal and external.  Spending time to complete proper drawings and documents and have the contractor do proper planning definitely ends in a better result, less changes, cost over runs and ultimately finishes the job in a shorter time frame. 

Go to previous parts of the series and look for future parts.

Part 1 – Need for a Methodology?

Part 2 – Environmental / SiteAnalysis

Part 3 – Market AnalysisPart 4 – Product Development
Part 5 -  Physical Planning / Design
Part 6 -  Cost Plan
Part 7 -  Business Master Plan
Part 8 -  Site Execution
Part 9 – Operations Management
Part 10 - Review and Revise


Jiwa Studio
Singapore, December 2011
http://jiwastudioweb.blogspot.com/