Rohan Grant | Building together: From conception to completion

There have been many instances in the construction industry regarding behaviours from many new developers who have just or are now entering the space and embarking upon new construction projects. Various observations and interactions show that, while many of these developers acquire the financial means to kickstart their ventures (kudos to them), they often lack a deep understanding of the intricate steps and processes involved in taking a development from conception to completion. This covert knowledge gap not only affects the project timeline, but also has significant implications for the contractors they engage with and overall project success.

One of the most pressing issues facing the industry today is that new developers often underestimate the complexity of the construction process. Yes, they have the capital and access to the financial resources required to fund a project, but without clear understanding of cash flow management and project management principles, they struggle to keep the project on track. This lack of understanding leads to delays, budget overruns, and strained relationships with stakeholders, especially other contractors.

There is also often a disconnect between these new developers and general construction professionals such as architects, engineers and project managers. Developers are often tempted to micromanage every aspect of the project, disregarding the expertise and recommendations of these professionals. This interference not only hampers the efficiency of the project but also undermines the expertise of the professionals hired to ensure its success. “Bird cyaan fly pon one wing”, so credit should be given where it’s due.

Another issue is the tendency for some new developers to make changes to the project scope midway through construction. While changes are sometimes necessary due to unforeseen circumstances or evolving project requirements, frequent and unnecessary changes will have a significant impact on both the timeline and the budget. Developers need to understand the correlation between changes and costs and be prepared to make informed decisions that balance their vision with practical considerations.

Lastly, and perhaps the most egregious is the concerning trend of developers firing project professionals/consultants at the slightest sign of disagreement or delay. While it’s understandable that developers want to ensure that projects are completed to their satisfaction, terminating contracts prematurely can lead to legal disputes, delays and additional costs. Instead, developers should focus on fostering open communication and collaboration with contractors, allowing them to do their jobs effectively while holding them accountable for their performance.

The road to successful construction projects in Jamaica requires a collaborative and informed approach from all stakeholders. Bridging the gap between new developers and seasoned construction professionals is essential for suitable growth and success. By fostering open communication, investing in knowledge, and trusting the expertise of professionals, smoother execution, enhanced efficiency and ultimately a thriving construction industry can be created which ultimately benefits everyone involved.

Rohan Grant is founder and CEO of Garco Construction