.png)
Mastering Communication for Construction Success
In the world of construction, effective communication is the cornerstone of success. As Ron Nussbaum, the host of the Construction Champions podcast, aptly states, "Communication is one of the biggest issues in construction, has been for over 40 years." This sentiment is echoed by Kat Oldershaw, the owner and operator of Kat & Co, a business operations consultancy that specializes in supporting creative companies.
During their insightful conversation, Kat and Ron delve into the critical role communication plays in transforming construction professionals into true champions. They explore the common challenges faced in the industry and offer practical strategies to overcome them.
The Cost of Miscommunication
Miscommunication in construction can be a costly affair. According to Ron, the average construction business with 100 employees or less can incur over $400,000 annually in rework and callbacks due to poor communication. This staggering figure underscores the importance of prioritizing effective communication throughout the construction process.
Bridging the Language Barrier
One of the primary obstacles in construction communication is the use of industry-specific jargon and terminology. Kat emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all stakeholders, from designers to builders, are on the same page. She suggests that designers should take the time to understand the language used by their construction partners and vice versa.
"If you're telling someone in a super vague way, um, that you wouldn't know what you're talking about yourself, like, how are they supposed to figure it out?"
To overcome this challenge, Kat recommends using visual aids, such as detailed schedules and marked-up plans, to enhance understanding and minimize the risk of miscommunication.
Fostering Collaborative Partnerships
Another key aspect of effective communication in construction is the involvement of all stakeholders throughout the design and build process. Kat and Ron advocate for a collaborative approach, where designers and builders work together from the inception of a project.
"Invite the builder to be part of the design process. [...] Creating an environment where that builder can be involved in the design phase, and then for all the builders out there listening, I would say create an environment where that designer can be involved in the build phase."
By fostering this collaborative partnership, both parties can better understand each other's perspectives, identify potential challenges, and find creative solutions to ensure the successful completion of the project.
Continuous Improvement through Feedback
Kat and Ron emphasize the importance of a post-project review, where the design and construction teams come together to reflect on the successes and challenges of the project. This feedback loop allows for continuous improvement and the identification of potential red flags for future collaborations.
"Having a meeting once a project wraps, after punch is done, and say, how did this go? You know, what were the pitfalls throughout the project? Maybe what are some areas that the client was not so happy? How could we have done it differently?"
By embracing this feedback-driven approach, construction professionals can enhance their communication skills, strengthen their partnerships, and deliver exceptional results for their clients.
Watch The Entire Interview Today!
Conclusion
In the dynamic world of construction, communication is the cornerstone of success. By prioritizing clear, concise, and collaborative communication, construction professionals can unlock the secrets to becoming true champions in their industry. As Kat and Ron have demonstrated, mastering the art of communication is not just a skill, but a necessity for thriving in the construction landscape.
Comments