Change Management
Managing change in Property Development is a critical skill that all Development and Project Managers MUST embrace. It’s never easy, but with a few guidelines you can at least smooth off some of the sharp edges.
Communication
Remember communication for the project manager has two distinct paths –
1. Keeping the client informed of the project process and
2. Ensuring your project delivery team (consultants, builder and stakeholders are all moving in the same direction)
Firstly having a communication protocol in place from the start of the job is essential. Communicate at least once a week with your client, even if there isn’t much to say, your client will feel informed and at ease. No news is NOT good news.
Have a formal protocol of communication with and between consultants. Ensure everyone knows and adheres to that system. Don’t ignore any breaches to this protocol as this is how small design issues fester to large problems during construction.
Don’t hide risk issues from the client, keep them informed. Potential Risk issues should be a standard topic in your weekly report and let your client know not just what the current issues are, but also what are the pitfalls that you are on the lookout for. Clients really hate it when a problem strikes and it’s the first they know about it…they still aren’t happy when it hits but as I said, being proactive smooths off some of the sharp edges.
…and finally, don’t lay blame (at least not until you have resolved the issue). Look for solutions, not problems. Get the change dealt with and the project back on track. There is plenty of time to lay blame after the project is complete, if that’s what you want to do.
John Rosel