Tools of the Trade

Tools of the Trade include more than you think.

It’s fairly easy to imagine tools required to competently construct a structure and often include thoughts of hammers, saws, a tape measure and alike…and for the experienced, Architectural Plans. Yet few in the public realm would ever think or even consider document management as an essential tool of the trade.

That's right, a competent and capable professional will always utilize documentation including: Plans, Specifications, RFQ’s, RFI’s, Purchase Orders, Formal Agreements, General Conditions (A201), Supplemental Conditions, Change Orders, Product Submittals, Shop Drawings, Budgets, Contractor’s Applications & Certificate for Payments (G702-703), Waivers of Lien, Sworn Statements, Insurance Requirements, Gantt Charts and a Critical Path Method (CPM) for scheduling the hundreds of activities that could take place over the duration of any project.

Truly, the difference between a Contract Broker and a Project Manager is knowing when and how to use all tools of the trade, including documentation. Elaborating, a Contract Broker is ordinarily focused on securing the job and billing for periodic activities, whereas a professional Project Manager will actually administer every aspect of the built-response in benefit of the Project-Owner’s best interest. Proper Project Management will often result in less disputes, create expectations, hold parties accountable, reduce costs and if ever needed a paper trail for legal remedy.

Today’s Owners are sophisticated, experienced and well educated, therefore it is reasonable that all team members understand the importance and requirement for accountability on every level of service provided. Make sure you and your service provider maximize proven management methods for your project by using ALL the tools of the trade including documentation.

Check out the American Institute of Architects current list of Contract Documents found here: https://www.aiacontracts.org/all-documents 

Or if you prefer, contact Dan Joseph & Associates today for your next project endeavor: https://www.djawest.com  

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