Construction project management is complex and challenging while requiring due diligence. Project managers need a complete understanding of planning, design, procurement, construction, and commissioning. But that isn’t everything required of project management.

            An important aspect of an effective project is due diligence, which involves conducting a thorough assessment of all aspects of the project to ensure a successful outcome. Effective projects minimize risks, understand financial and legal implications, and ensure stakeholder expectations are met.

Due Diligence Then and Now

Then: In the past, due diligence was mainly manual, in that project managers would have to gather physical information from various sources, such as blueprints, drawings, and contacts. This process had limitations and would often cause delays, cost overruns, and poor outcomes.	Now: The new path of due diligence in construction project management is technology. Technology integrates information, aligns desired outcomes, and changes with the complex nature of modern construction projects; in real-time.

Master Due Diligence in Construction

            Technologies assist in due diligence, but these technologies alone cannot create due diligence. Each technology listed below shows how MySmartPlans not only creates organized project delivery (OPD) but creates accountability driving sustainable results with information governance. 

Integrated Project Delivery (IPD)

            IPD is a collaborative process that involves close communication and coordination between all team project members including owners, architects, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders. This approach emphasizes early involvement, shared risk, and a focus on value rather than cost, allowing for greater efficiency, better outcomes, and reduced risk.

            MySmartPlans creates an integrated localized dashboard and a designated Digital Information Librarian (DIL) as a part of your project team. Your DIL is a project gatekeeper ensuring all project data is captured from disparate systems, into one software to perfect communication and coordination.

Improved Data Collection

            Thanks to the emergence of cloud-based technology, project managers can now use advanced data tools to collect data from various sources in real-time. The speed of information identifies risks and opportunities while ensuring that the most up-to-date information is available for the project.

            MySmartPlans not only integrates data from various sources, but your DIL organizes project documentation. Have you ever opened or received a file with no naming conventions? You had no idea what the file was, or what it pertains to. I know the answer is yes, because that is 20% of the files, we collect on construction projects! We adjust naming conventions, with dates, submittal numbers, etc., and create searchability throughout all project files.

            Furthermore, MySmartplans DIL audits your project information and creates information governance. For example, Plans with missing sheets, or sheets not listed on the TOC. Meeting minutes without the referenced ASI, RFI, or Submittals being available. Detail references on plans that do not exist. Approximately 10% of project data includes mistakes that we catch and get corrected. Data collection is important, but without organization and auditing of data, your project quickly turns into a disorganized mess! 

Virtual & Augmented Reality

            Project managers can now create digital models of the construction site, allowing them to see how the project will look in real time. This helps managers identify potential issues and make design changes before construction begins.

            MySmartPlans knows the importance of technology and views all aspects of the project for correctness. That is why we have created some fantastic tools to help save time, money, and resources.

• Color Sheet Comparison: We overlay current plan sheets with the amendments or changed sheets. The field workers have a clear picture of what has been changed and the most current information in real time.

  

• Current Sets: DILs also create a digital current set with links. The plans are updated with the most current set, creating a live as-built with project knowledge in one place. Your DIL also links (creates a clickable reference) on every plan sheet with referenced Addenda, RFIs, ASIs, and details.

  

• Digital Closeout: All project data is collected throughout the project ensuring a complete digital twin. This complete collection becomes our Closeout Dashboard deliverable. It can integrate with facilities management software or stand-alone for full transparency in managing the build for 50+ years.

  

• SmartRooms: To ensure documentation is linked to the finished build, we create signature SmartRooms. This turnover includes QR codes in rooms (such as mechanical, AC Units, Electrical, etc.) that when scanned link to the correct O&M Mauls, Training Video, Warranty, or As-built. This ensures due diligence throughout the full life of the finished product.

  

Technology needs Human Integration

            Due diligence has proven effective, however, it requires a shift in mindset and a willingness to embrace new ways of building, such as partnering with MySmartPlans. Technology has transformed due diligence but it still requires a human touch to meet project requirements. Embrace new ways of working and incorporate the latest tools and methods to improve your chance of success and better outcomes with a greater value for your investment.

Technology is only a tool, and human input is critical to ensure the success of the construction project. MySmartPlans is the only software that pairs a Digital Information Librarian with complete project knowledge!

Contact us today to transform your project’s due diligence by creating accountability and results with information governance.