Effective communication among construction contractors is crucial for the success of a project. Communication is a core skill critical in the digital age. The good part is that a person can enhance the skill with practice and training.
For construction contractors, communication is an essential skill. It is imperative when the high stakes of a construction site are involved – such as for a bid submission or material procurement and delivery.
Communication failures on a construction site can result in potential problems and delays for the project and cause damage to equipment or property, or worst case, injury or death to site team members. Let us understand the reasons and solutions to ineffective communication amongst construction contractors.
Miscommunication in Construction
Communication failure can happen in construction, anywhere, and at any time during the lifecycle of a project. Here are a few reasons:
a. Contractor teams are unaware of where to find the correct information to complete site works
b. Ineffective communication channels are used across teams
c. Multiple dialogues are occurring across consultants, contractors, and client
d. A slow progress rate discourages teams from fully engaging in ongoing conversations.
Better communication in construction
Communication is a skill that can be practised and improved to decrease errors and issues within teams and construction contractors. Here are ten tips to enhance communication in construction projects.
Simple language and words
When you use industry-specific terms or words that are difficult to understand, the teams spend more time deciphering the meaning than working. So, reducing the use of jargon or complex words will make the communication process effortless.
Encourage conversations
Miscommunication among teams can be rather expensive. Although a vital skill, training to develop good communication is less common in the construction industry. Training to improve communication skills such as writing, drawing, speaking, and listening can benefit the teams to collaborate smoothly.
Establish a clear chain of command
The hierarchy of command should be established right at the beginning of a project. It should be set up in the initial contract document between construction contractors. A clear chain of command eliminates confusion, standardizes communication, and creates efficiency and accountability.
Use technology
Construction-specific applications, especially for communication, have revolutionized the process of construction. Technology has improved real-time communication between onsite and offsite construction contractors, ultimately improving the cost and time efficiency of the project.
Listen first
Effective communication happens when the listener comprehends the information that the speaker intends to convey. Listening with purpose can be activated by:
- Asking questions to get specific details from the speaker.
- Forming responses after the other person has finished speaking.
- Take brief notes and paraphrase the speaker’s main point to confirm your understanding of the message.
Maintain quality checks for conversations
Quality checks are an integral part of any construction site. Work is not well done until marked approved. It is time we start implementing quality checks on worksite communication as well. Accuracy of communication, documents, and messages will reduce misinformation and confusion among construction contractors.
Train teams on new processes
Updating teams on the new processes and equipment types is crucial for the construction site’s safety and efficiency. Keeping up with continuous technological advancements in construction, managers must instil regular training sessions to improve productivity and collaboration for the existing workforce.
Encourage open chats
Nurture a work environment where employees are encouraged to communicate openly. The team members must feel valued and heard not just when things are going well but even when they are facing difficulties. Open communication will ensure problems and feedback are shared and attended immediately.
Improve hiring process
Rushing with the process of hiring due to labour shortages will inevitably lead to recruiting a less suitable prospect. Getting stuck with the wrong hire can lead to unexpected losses due to inefficiency or lack of qualifications. Evaluate candidates not only on their technical and job-related qualifications but also on their communication skills, as communication is the key to building efficient teams.
Educate bilingual site teams
Miscommunication due to language barriers is a common problem on construction sites. The barrier reduces productivity and puts the workers at significant safety risks. Training all staff in the local language and implementing processes in more than one language can ensure workers understand and are in line with work plans and jobs.
End note
Good communication is the foundation of successful construction projects. Interpersonal communication is necessary to make sure the worksite is safe, productive, and efficient. It is time to start a culture of effective communication amongst construction contractors and teams. See more at Collaborate by India Nirmaan.
