Cheat Sheet to Managing the Top 5 Challenges of the Construction Industry

The construction industry is the driving force of the nation's progress. The last two decades have seen rapid development in terms of technology and infrastructure. Though our landscapes are adorned with skyscrapers and highways, that doesn't make the industry immune to challenges.

In this blog, we will be discussing the different challenges faced by the construction industry in India and their potential solutions.

Challenge 1: Lack of coordination

Construction is a multi-faceted sector with professionals working on various aspects from design to execution. Precise coordination among contractors, suppliers, builders, architects, and engineers is crucial. Often, coordinating on a multi-hierarchical level becomes challenging. This results in a lack of communication and incompetency in execution.

Solution: Be vigilant while maintaining records

The primary cause of the lack of coordination boils down to the severe lack of record maintenance. Simple steps like sharing developments every week with the entire team while determining the consequent plan of action are required. Additionally, email or paper records can be maintained of conversations.

Challenge 2: Lack of enthusiasm for adopting new technology

Despite being pioneers of modernism and the new century, the construction industry shies away from adapting to new technology, due to the proven effectiveness of the current ways. This often creates unforeseen hurdles and results in unsafe construction sites. In addition, this also extends the timeline due to limited use of innovative solutions.

Solution: Accept technology as an ally

Often professionals from the construction industry view technological developments as a threat. However, this mindset brings challenges that can otherwise be resolved with the use of technology. Hence, it's important to not only accept developments like 3D printing but also embrace them to enhance the output.

Challenge 3: Labour shortage

The construction industry faces concerns regarding labour shortages due to the unavailability of skilled on-site workers. In addition, this also puts a challenge in front of the contractors to hire and retain workers. The shortage is rising due to a lack of training and educational opportunities for workers.

Solution: Train and retain workers

The industry must maintain a focus on retaining its workers. To achieve this, training sessions can be organised that focus on providing development opportunities to the workers. This will help build an environment where each step is dedicated towards a sustainable future for both contractors and workers.

Challenge 4: Inadequate planning and budgeting

As discussed earlier, the construction industry operates within a multi-hierarchical structure. Consequently, various quotes are provided to clients before the selection process begins. In pursuit of winning a client, many contractors underestimate the budget, leading to eventual overspending. This further gives rise to scheduling issues and cash flow hindrances.

Solution: Be realistic in terms of budgets and timelines

Circling back to the first point, this one is also related to transparency. Instead of attempting to impress clients with quotes and timelines, focus on setting budgets and timelines that will help you develop a realistic plan of action. This will ensure a better expectation-to-output ratio once the work starts.

In conclusion, the construction industry needs to resolve these problems and be prepared for the future. While some challenges will require time and attitude shift, changes like transparency in budgeting, timeline expectations, and embracing technology can be exercised immediately.

Challenge 5: Safety hazards and workplace accidents

At the execution stage, construction sites overlook the safety guidelines. Often, lack of training also results in workers making mistakes that can be hazardous, leading to accidents and mishaps during construction. In addition, sometimes unforeseen situations also give rise to hazards or accidents.

Solution: Prioritising safety at the working site

At any construction site, there will be an overwhelming amount of equipment and materials that can cause danger. However, if professionals prioritise safety during the preparatory stage itself, mishaps and accidents can be reduced significantly.

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