Congratulations, you’ve successfully secured your construction bid! 🤩 But hey, the real work begins after the celebration. Because the post-bid phase is of utmost importance for project success and long-term business growth. That is why in this article, we explore 8 key post-bid strategies that you should implement after your construction bidding process. If you follow these steps you’ll have smooth project execution and build better client relationships.
1. Detailed Contract Review
#Thorough Analysis
Once you’ve won the bid, it’s tempting to dive straight into the work. However, a careful review of the contract is essential.
+ Check for discrepancies between the bid and the final contract
+ Clarify any ambiguous terms or conditions
+ Ensure all project specifications are clearly defined
#Legal Consultation
Consider having a legal expert review the contract to protect your interests and avoid potential disputes down the line.
“A well-reviewed contract sets the foundation for a successful project and a positive client relationship.” – Construction Law Expert
2. Project Team Assembly
#Key Personnel Selection
Assemble your project team based on the specific requirements of the won bid.
+ Choose team members with relevant experience and skills
+ Consider the project’s scale and complexity when selecting personnel
+ Ensure clear communication of roles and responsibilities. Read how to clearly communicate roles and responsibilities in a construction company.
#Subcontractor Engagement
If subcontractors are needed, start the selection and engagement process early. You can read more on how to select a good subcontractor here.
+ Review subcontractor qualifications and past performance
+ Negotiate terms and conditions aligned with the main contract
+ Schedule kickoff meetings to align expectations
3. Detailed Project Planning
#Schedule Development
Create a comprehensive project schedule that outlines all major milestones and tasks.
+ Use project management software for efficient scheduling. Learn ways to use project management software.
+ Include buffer time for unexpected delays or challenges
+ Share the schedule with all stakeholders for transparency
#Resource Allocation
Plan the allocation of resources, including labor, equipment, and materials.
+ Create a resource calendar to avoid overbooking or shortages
+ Consider lead times for material procurement
+ Plan for potential resource conflicts with other ongoing projects
4. Risk Assessment and Mitigation
#Identify Potential Risks
Conduct a thorough risk assessment specific to the project.
+ Consider environmental, financial, and operational risks
+ Involve team members from different disciplines for a comprehensive view
+ Use historical data from similar projects to anticipate challenges
#Develop Mitigation Strategies
For each identified risk, create a mitigation plan.
+ Assign responsibility for each risk to specific team members
+ Establish triggers for implementing mitigation actions
+ Regularly review and update the risk management plan throughout the project
5. Client Communication Plan
#Establish Communication Protocols
It is very important to set up a clear communication plan with the client from the outset in the post-bid phase.
+ Determine preferred communication methods and frequency
+ Schedule regular progress meetings
+ Establish a chain of command for decision-making and issue resolution
#Documentation System
Implement a robust system for documenting all client communications.
+ Use project management software for centralized communication tracking
+ Ensure all team members are trained on proper documentation procedures. Know more about The do’s and don’ts of Construction Document management.
+ Regularly backup communication records
6. Quality Control Measures
#Quality Management Plan
Develop a comprehensive quality management plan tailored to the project.
+ Define quality standards and metrics
+ Establish inspection and testing procedures
+ Create checklists for critical quality control points
#Training and Awareness
Ensure all team members understand and are committed to quality standards.
+ Conduct quality awareness training sessions
+ Encourage a culture of continuous improvement
+ Implement a system for reporting and addressing quality issues
7. Financial Management Setup
#Budget Tracking System
Implement a robust system for tracking project finances.
+ Set up cost codes aligned with the project’s work breakdown structure
+ Establish procedures for regular budget reviews and forecasting
+ Use financial management software for real-time cost tracking
#Cash Flow Planning
Develop a detailed cash flow projection for the project duration.
+ Consider payment terms and potential delays
+ Plan for major expenditures and equipment rentals
+ Establish a contingency fund for unexpected costs
8. Continuous Improvement Process post your bid
#Feedback Mechanisms
Set up systems to gather ongoing feedback throughout the project.
+ Implement regular team debriefs and lessons learned sessions
+ Create channels for client feedback
+ Encourage open communication about challenges and successes
#Performance Metrics
Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure project success.
+ Track metrics such as schedule adherence, budget performance, and quality standards
+ Regularly review KPIs with the project team
+ Use data to inform future bidding and project management strategies. Read how to use historical data to inform future bidding
Conclusion
When you implement these 8 post-bid strategies you increase your chance of project success and client satisfaction. Remember the work that happens after securing the bid is just as important as the bidding process itself.
