Infrastructure projects power businesses, connect people to jobs and communities, and keep an economy moving. They’re a critical component of any plan for sustainable development, but they aren’t without their fair share of project challenges. Governments at every level have limited funding, and they often must carefully balance new infrastructure projects against a host of competing priorities. They also face the challenge of diminishing returns on public investment in infrastructure — returns that fall below their cost.
The planning stage is all about laying the groundwork for an infrastructure project. This includes assessing the feasibility of potential projects, developing business plans and budgets, identifying financing sources, and conducting environmental and risk assessments. It’s an essential part of infrastructure projects, and it needs to be done right the first time.
Once a project is approved, it enters the construction phase. This includes engineering design, CAD drafting, and scheduling. It’s also where the bid process takes place to secure needed funding. The key to a successful construction phase is clear communication and collaboration. It’s important to make sure everyone understands the schedule and their responsibilities, and it’s equally crucial to have the right tools to help them deliver on their promises.
The final stage of an infrastructure project involves maintaining it once it’s completed. This is where things like BIM, cloud-based dashboards, and simpler on-site reporting tools really shine. With the right tools, it’s easier for all stakeholders to track progress and provide real-time updates. This helps to ensure a project is delivered on time and within budget, while staying on top of any unexpected issues that may arise.