The Pre-Construction Phase
The pre-construction phase is the beginning of the construction process and is a crucial part of any construction project.
Key Steps in the Pre-Construction Phase
During this phase, planning and design occur. The importance of careful planning and designing cannot be overstated as it can minimize delays and according to Gambatese et al. maximize worker safety. “Designing for construction safety entails addressing the safety of construction workers in the design of the permanent features of a project.” The steps involved in the pre-construction phase are as follows –
- Conceptualization, Design, and Feasibility Analysis
- Obtaining Permits
- Cost Estimation
- General Contractor Selection
- Material Procurement
- Secure Funding
Conceptualization, Design, and Feasibility Analysis
In order to begin the full-scale design process, a feasibility analysis, or feasibility study, should be performed. Often before the primary feasibility study can be conducted, a preliminary feasibility study is completed. A preliminary feasibility study, or pre-feasibility study “helps to “frame” and “flesh-out” specific business scenarios” (Iowa State University 2020) or, in terms of construction, helps to narrow down the list of potential projects. Following the preliminary feasibility study, the primary feasibility study is conducted. Feasibility studies are conducted by project coordinators to “determine the viability of their idea before proceeding and incurring upfront development costs” (Iowa State University 2020)’. Feasibility studies are also used to identify issues with the project or project site that need remedying and conduct environmental impact assessments (EIA).
Before there can be a structure, there must first be an idea. Many construction projects begin with a “needs assessment”. A needs assessment is the process by which the purpose, or function, of a construction project is identified. Need assessments can come in several forms. Even when someone looks in the refrigerator to determine what they need to cook a meal, they are performing a needs assessment. In the context of construction for example, a landowner looking to develop their property can perform a rudimentary needs assessment to determine what type of structure would be most successful at that location, or a skilled laborer looking to open a business front may complete a needs assessment to identify where their business would earn the most profit or contribute the most to the surrounding community. This process can also include establishing the basics of construction design and necessary facilities.