As a construction manager, the closeout phase of a project is often stressful because of the tight schedule.
By creating a dedicated workflow to manage the defects, snags or punch list items and communicate directly with the contractors, this stage becomes easier and more transparent.
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In this article, we will go through a setup that focuses on the communication between the construction manager and the subcontractor on a typical project during the closeout phase.
The defect management process
When a defect is detected, the construction manager pinpoints the exact location and creates a new defect.
They add all the necessary information and pictures of the issue, then send it to the responsible contractor.
Contractors receive the task and can locate the recorded issue on-site. They then can either
- fix the defect and send it back to the construction manager, or
- reject the task if their work was executed properly.
The following article describes this in more detail from a contractor's point of view: Basics for subcontractors: Answer the task.
Defect engagement overview
Over the course of the closeout phase, you have full control over all defects and can visualize and analyze them, print them in different layouts, or send out task reminders.
Defects per floor:
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Defects over time:
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Defects per contractor: (Click the image to enhance) |
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Defects can be printed:
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Example of a list of defects:
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Defect management administration
Upload model files and 2D drawings
Make sure the locations structure is set up to resemble the physical locations as closely as possible, read this article for a best practice approach: Locations - best practice.
Set up user groups
Set up custom groups for your contractors and the construction managers. User groups help you manage teams more easily.
Read this article on the best practice approach: User groups - best practice.
Set up a defect task form
Defects are created as Tasks in Dalux.
Task templates allow you to add or change data fields that you, as a construction manager, fill out when creating a defect.
Create a template by using this guide.
The template should contain a minimum of fields so that it is easy to complete during the final inspection. Also, don't include a deadline, as a deadline usually refers to a contract date for all defects, not each defect separately.
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Set up workflows
The final step of setting up your defect management is to define workflows. Set up work packages and workflows as outline in our best practice approach: Work packages and workflows - best practice.
Tips and tricks
Make sure to only add one contractor per workflow, this will help you get a better overview and make the project easier to use.
Read more
If you want to learn more about how to set up Dalux according to best practices, read this article: