Communication

Seldom is the term communication defined in a construction project contract. Yet most of the frictions, frustrations, and inefficiencies marring construction project relationships are related to communication breakdowns. This article examines processes which construction project managers can establish to ensure that project stakeholders communicate effectively, efficiently, and positively. It identifies the primary obstacle to communicating effectively (the intelligent reception of information) and the key elements of communicating successfully (downward and upward). It also talks about the importance of listening to others and the problems of withholding information. It then discusses how the author's construction management company practices effective communications in relation to seven areas of construction management: written communications (proposals, reports), meetings, value engineering, critical path method scheduling, change orders, on-site communications, and advanced telecommunications technology.