Understanding the Project Lifecycle: Oversight of Construction Processes

This blog marks the conclusion of a 7-part series showcasing DesignCell’s Project Lifecycle, utilizing the latest technology to expedite projects and attain high quality, resulting in smoother processes, minimized revisions, timely delivery, and adherence to budget and schedule.

In Phase 7—Oversight of Construction Processes—Developers Benefit from DesignCell’s Experience and Expertise, which Leads to a Smooth Construction Process

Once a project moves into the construction phase, our role evolves to become more focused on oversight, coordination, and problem-solving. 

Our primary objective during this phase is to ensure that the design vision is realized as intended while addressing any challenges or changes that may arise during the construction process. Whether it is a hotel, multi-family, or renovation project, this involves activities like interpreting design intent, value engineering, coordinating various professionals, managing changes, and maintaining quality standards.

Here’s how we assist during Construction Administration:

Schedule: At the project’s outset, the contractor submits shop drawings and submittals for long lead items. This includes essential elements such as structural steel, elevators, generators, and switch gear, which require our review and approval. Due to the current challenges related to shipping lead times, reviewing these submissions so that the general contractor can place orders is imperative to keeping the project on schedule.

Construction logistics: We help navigate the construction process to provide input to questions, code interpretation and solutions as needed. Working closely with the entire project team, we keep the project moving forward, major milestones are met, and solutions remain cost-effective.

Site visits: Accurate execution of the design through progress monitoring is a central element of this process. We help to maintain the integrity of the standards set forth in the design phase by reviewing completed work for accuracy, functionality, and aesthetics. This involves verifying that the materials and workmanship meet the specified standards of both DesignCell and the brand, while also addressing any accessibility issues that may arise.

Operation & Maintenance:  Upon completion of a project, one critical aspect we can oversee is commissioning – a process that involves thorough testing, verification, and documentation of building systems (e.g., HVAC, electrical) to ensure that they function as designed. To enhance sustainability, various jurisdictions are increasingly requiring commissioning for projects of specific sizes. Furthermore, we provide the relevant parties with As-built drawings to cater to the future requirements of the building.

Our Project Lifecycle, as described in this 7-part blog series, ensures the implementation of design and construction standards, adherence to spatial requirements, optimization of operational functionality, and fulfillment of standards for our hospitality and multi-family development clients. Each phase is thoughtfully coordinated and communicated with our clients and partners to achieve a successful project.