By Bruce Jervis
On large, complex construction projects, a detailed schedule is a necessity for effective performance. On projects of a limited scope, scheduling discrete activities may seem like a superfluous effort and unnecessary expense. But even on small projects, contractors act at their peril if they fail to prepare as-planned schedules and maintain as-built schedules.
A contractor on a recent federal project of modest scope ignored the contractual scheduling requirements. The government subsequently terminated the contract for default due to the contractor’s lack of sufficient progress. Eager to avoid the serious consequences of a default termination, the contractor argued it experienced excusable delay and should be granted an extension of time. Without appropriate scheduling documentation, however, the contractor had no chance of proving its case.
Why would any contractor put itself in such a defenseless position? While sophisticated scheduling techniques may not be necessary for contractors on small projects, no scheduling at all is not a viable option. There are many available scheduling tools. What suggestions do you have for contractors on projects of limited scope?
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