How do we project manage?
At Carma UK Construction, project management is at the heart of everything we do. Under the leadership of our team, Paul Sellers (CEO and PM), Julian Steele-Davis, and Helen Reid, we have developed a structured approach to deliver every project to the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency. This article outlines how we manage each project, from planning to completion, ensuring success every step of the way.
1. Advance Processes: Laying the Groundwork
At Carma, we believe that meticulous planning is the cornerstone of project success. Before breaking ground, we focus on establishing clear objectives, budgets, and timelines. This process is so important for all parties to come out on top, a happy client with a beautiful home, designs executed as per Architects plans, allowing us to complete the project on price and on time.
Our team collaborates to develop a comprehensive project programme, identifying all key milestones and dependencies. We prepare detailed risk assessments and method statements (RAMS) to ensure compliance with the CDM Regulations 2015.
We finalise contracts with architects, contractors, and subcontractors while organising site logistics, such as permits, access, and supply chain coordination. Pre-start meetings bring all stakeholders together to align goals and responsibilities. A robust communication plan ensures everyone remains informed and engaged throughout the project lifecycle.
2. Daily Processes: Keeping Projects on Track
Daily management is where our team’s expertise truly shines. Site supervision and management include toolbox talks to discuss daily activities and risks, ensuring a proactive approach to safety. Our team closely monitors progress against the project schedule, conducting regular inspections to uphold health and safety standards.
We maintain detailed site diaries that record labour, materials, equipment usage, and key activities. This documentation helps us track project developments and manage any changes effectively. Open communication between our project managers, site teams, and stakeholders ensures that any issues are addressed promptly and efficiently.
3. Weekly Processes: Reviewing and Planning Ahead
Weekly processes are essential for maintaining momentum and addressing challenges. At Carma, we hold regular progress meetings with our site teams and stakeholders to review achievements, identify issues, and plan for the week ahead. These meetings also allow us to provide transparent updates to our clients.
Our project managers update the overall programme and conduct financial reviews to keep everything on track. Weekly site inspections ensure that our work meets the highest standards of quality and safety, reinforcing our commitment to excellence.
4. Monthly Processes: Strategic Oversight
Monthly reviews provide an opportunity to evaluate the project’s overall progress. Our detailed reports highlight key milestones, risks, and financial updates, comparing actual performance against the project programme. These insights allow us to make informed decisions and implement corrective actions if needed.
We also evaluate the performance of contractors and subcontractors to ensure that everyone involved meets Carma’s high standards. Monthly client meetings serve as a platform for collaborative problem-solving and maintaining strong relationships with all stakeholders.
5. Fortnightly Health and Safety Audits: Ensuring a Safe Workplace
At Carma, health and safety are non-negotiable. We conduct fortnightly audits to ensure that every site complies with the highest safety standards. These audits include a thorough inspection of equipment, site conditions, and worker compliance with safety protocols. We also review RAMS to ensure they remain relevant and address any new risks.
The results of these audits are documented in detailed reports, highlighting any areas of concern and the corrective actions required. Our site teams receive immediate feedback, and follow-up checks ensure that all issues are resolved promptly. This rigorous approach not only minimizes risks but also fosters a culture of safety and accountability across all projects.
6. Variation Management: Handling Changes Effectively
Variation management is a critical aspect of construction projects, and at Carma, we handle it with precision to minimize disruptions. Variations often arise due to design changes, unforeseen site conditions, or client requests. When a variation is identified, our process begins with a detailed assessment of its impact on the project’s scope, timeline, and budget.
We document the variation thoroughly, providing clear and transparent communication to all stakeholders. This includes outlining the reasons for the change, the associated costs, and any adjustments to the programme. Once approved, we integrate the variation into the project plan, ensuring seamless execution without compromising quality or deadlines.
By maintaining open communication and leveraging our experience, we ensure that variations are managed efficiently and fairly. This proactive approach helps us maintain strong client relationships while keeping projects on track.
7. Tailored Time Management for Every Site
At Carma, we understand that every project is unique. For smaller projects, such as house extensions, our approach involves frequent checks and remote updates, ensuring efficient management without unnecessary overheads. Medium projects, like small residential developments, require daily site visits and dedicated oversight to address emerging challenges.
For large-scale projects, such as commercial developments, we dedicate full-time, on-site management to coordinate complex logistics and ensure seamless execution. This tailored approach allows us to allocate resources effectively, ensuring success across a diverse range of projects.
Conclusion
At Carma UK Construction, we pride ourselves on our ability to manage projects with precision, professionalism, and passion. Our structured approach—from advance planning to daily oversight, fortnightly health and safety audits, and effective variation management—ensures that we deliver exceptional results for every client. By tailoring our processes to each project’s unique requirements, we uphold the high standards that have become synonymous with the Carma name.