Contracting Execution Plans and
Schedules
Developing a Contracting Plan and Schedule before making any major commitments is essential to the ultimate success of the project. The first step is deciding on the Contracting Strategy for the project.
Generally it is better to have a structure designed before asking contractors for firm prices to build it. However, there are situations when projects are better handled on a “design/build” basis. Design/build contracts are best if the project is schedule driven and the scope is vaguely defined.
A realistic review of the Owner’s available resources to manage the project is the first step in determining contracting strategy. Increased Owner involvement usually means an increased potential for savings by eliminating markups. The contracting strategy should be based on the Owner’s available resources and his acceptable level of risk.
Once the Contracting Strategy is selected an Execution Plan and Schedule is developed which includes items such as:
- List of Contract packages by types of services required:
- Architectural
- Engineering
- Construction Management
- General Contractor
- Specialty Contracts
- Support Contracts
- Etc.
- Preliminary Scopes of Work for each contract package
- Proposed Bidder Qualification Criteria
- Preliminary Bidders List w/contacts for each contract package
- Baseline Execution Schedule and Budget
- Required Project Completion Date
- Responsibilities and Obligations of the Owner
