Before starting the construction, it is very important to define every detail of the construction stages. Only then can you ensure that it is possible to move forward and make the construction as predictable as possible.

Continue reading and check everything about the phases of the construction: 

1. Conception and preliminary study

2. Architectural project 

3. Planning

4. Budget

5. Preparation of the construction site

6. Execution and management of the construction

7. Finalization and delivery

1. Conception and preliminary study

The goal of the construction is to complete the building. For that, you need to define the project scope, which is nothing more than detailed information on all activities that will be carried out.

You will need to include all the main data, such as: objective, description, limits, schedule, deliveries, who are the responsible persons, budget values, etc. 

1.1. Technical and economic feasibility

After defining the scope, it is time to analyze the technical and economic feasibility of the project.

• Technical feasibility: conduct an analysis of the land conditions and verify if everything complies with legal standards and requirements. The compatibility of the projects is fundamental, especially in more complicated constructions, where it is essential to ensure that all systems will work well together. The soil load capacity, wind direction, and sunlight are some factors that need to be well studied in this phase.

• Economic feasibility: it is necessary to prepare a preliminary budget with unit cost compositions and the expected productivity. It is also important to consider different financial scenarios, such as: possible variations in material prices or delays in the project. 

- Read also: The role of the Technical and Legal Feasibility Study (EVTL) for expansion projects

1.2. Topographic surveys

Topographic surveys are essential for understanding the land where the construction will take place. Drones can even be used in civil construction to capture details of the site.

This data is essential for the geometric project and for defining the contour lines, which directly influence the planning of drainage and foundations.

1.3. Geotechnical surveys

Geotechnical surveys provide information about soil characteristics, which are fundamental for the foundation design. A poorly conducted survey can compromise the stability of the entire construction. 

Therefore, techniques such as SPT (Standard Penetration Test) and CPT (Cone Penetration Test) are used to assess soil resistance and identify the presence of groundwater. With this data, it is possible to design foundations that ensure the safety and durability of the structure, whether with piles, footings, or raft foundations, depending on the type of soil.

- Read also: 4 essential tools for civil engineers

2. Architectural project 

The architectural project is the visual and functional heart of any building. In it, the layouts of the environments, the aesthetics, the openings, the circulation, and the relationship between internal and external spaces are defined. This project does not only deal with beauty or design, but also with functionality, accessibility, and thermal and acoustic comfort.

The architect needs to work in conjunction with the engineers to ensure that the proposed solutions are structurally viable and comply with technical norms and local regulations.

3. Planning

With the projects defined, it is time to develop the construction planning and budget within this series of construction stages. 

The ideal is to use the Project Analytical Structure (EAP). It is a visual map, or diagram, that details all the elements of the project. 

It also ensures that everyone involved has a common understanding of what needs to be done, how, and when.

3.1. Identification of activities

It is within this phase of the construction that you will list all necessary activities, such as excavation, foundation, masonry, electrical installation, painting, among others.

3.2. Definition of durations

Defining the durations of activities is an important phase, as it directly impacts the meeting of deadlines, cost control, and the final quality of the project. This means calculating the time required for the completion of each identified activity in the schedule. 

The process requires a careful analysis of available resources, task complexity, and potential risks associated. 

You can do this in several ways: 

• Construction schedule: provides detailed information on the timing of project activities, serving as an essential tool for visualizing the workflow. It allows you to identify possible overlaps or gaps in planned activities and establishes a solid basis for monitoring and controlling project progress;

• Gantt chart: tool with a visual representation of the schedule through horizontal bars. Each one represents the duration of an activity over time, facilitating the understanding of task sequencing and identifying activities that can be executed in parallel;

• Masterplan: strategic document that encompasses the macro vision of the project, including important milestones, main phases, and critical deliverables. The estimated activity durations feed into the Masterplan, ensuring that the detailed schedule aligns with the strategic objectives and set deadlines.

3.3. Definition of precedence

Defining the precedence between activities is not limited to establishing a logical sequence based on technical dependencies. This planning phase also involves strategic decisions that can impact the progress and success of the project.

When planning the sequence of tasks, it is important to consider not only which activities depend on others, but also how the chosen order can:

• Optimize resource use: allocate labor, equipment, and materials efficiently to avoid idleness or overload;

• Reduce costs and deadlines: identify opportunities to perform activities in parallel or accelerate stages that may hasten project completion;

• Minimize risks: plan the sequence to reduce potential delays or issues that may arise during execution;

• Meet specific constraints: consider factors such as weather conditions, the availability of suppliers, or legal permits that may affect the schedule.

For example, although it is technically not possible to install the roof before building the walls, strategically it may be advantageous to simultaneously prepare the roof structures while the walls are being erected, as long as it does not compromise quality or safety.

3.4. Generation of the schedule

The construction schedule is a tool that distributes activities over time, showing when each task should start and finish. It not only helps keep the construction organized but also allows for adjustments in case of unforeseen events. To assist you in this part, you can use software such as: MS Project, Agilean, and Prevision. 

With Construct IN, you can perform monitoring of construction by comparing the activities planned in the schedule with updated images of the site. This visual verification allows you to confirm whether the planned activities were effectively carried out as scheduled.

With the insights gained from this comparison, managers can identify deviations between the planned and the actual, allowing for a quick response. 

Learn more about our solution: 

- Read more: Construction schedule in Excel: why this tool is not a good option?

4. Budget

The budget of the project is essential to ensure that the project is completed within the expected cost and quality. 

4.1. Study of the conditions

Analysis of factors that can influence costs, such as: site conditions, logistics of transporting materials, and labor availability. 

4.2. Breakdown of direct and indirect costs

Listing of all items that will generate direct costs in the construction, such as: materials, labor, and equipment usage. Each one must be detailed based on unit cost compositions. You can use the SINAPI table to assist you. 

Indirect costs are expenses that are not directly associated with a specific activity of the construction but are essential for the project's progress. They include expenses such as: project administration, temporary installations (offices and storage), security, etc.

4.3. Quantity surveying

This is the process of measuring and quantifying all materials and services required for the construction. For example, how many cubic meters of concrete will be used?

4.4. Price quotation

This means seeking suppliers for the purchase of materials and services necessary for the construction under the best terms for price and deadline.

4.5. Indirect expenses

It is applied to calculate the selling price of the project. The BDI includes costs that are not directly linked to executing activities, such as: administration, taxes, insurance, and profit margin. 

5. Preparation of the construction site

The proper preparation of the land and temporary installations ensures that the construction can proceed without interruption, with safety and efficiency. Moreover, a well-organized construction site facilitates material control and access to different sectors of the project, contributing to flow and adherence to deadlines set in the schedule.

Mobilization is the moment when all resources — such as equipment, materials, and labor — are gathered at the site. In this phase, temporary installations are set up, which include: lodging, material storage, social areas, etc. 

Preparing the land is a critical part of these construction stages, which includes earthworks, drainage, and retaining structures.

6. Execution and management of the construction

The execution is the phase where the construction takes shape. This phase includes: foundation, structure, enclosure and roofing, installations (electrical, hydraulic, and sanitary) and finishes. To ensure that everything goes well, you need to focus on good construction management.  

A tool that can help you a lot in this is Construct IN. Our platform simplifies the work of the construction manager by bringing all information together in one place.  With it, you can track activities with total transparency, centralize information on RDOs, pendencies, and notes more easily. 

In addition, you can monitor the construction remotely with 360° images, reducing the need for on-site visits. The integration with BIM provides more precise management, helping to compare the BIM project with the execution of the construction in 360°.

Watch the video to see everything that this tool can do for you! 

- Read also: BIM BR Strategy: understand what it is and the main goals

7. Finalization and delivery

In the finalization phase, the necessary inspections and tests are performed to ensure that the construction meets the required quality standards. Leak tests, electrical tests, and load tests are some of the procedures carried out to verify the safety and functionality of the systems. After approval in all inspections, the construction is delivered to the client, with the assurance that all requirements have been met.

Construct IN is the best choice for all phases of the construction!

Schedule a free demonstration today and discover how Construct IN can transform your construction management.

- Read also: ERP for construction companies: main benefits and when to hire