For any construction project, keeping accurate and comprehensive documentation is crucial to ensure transparency, accountability, and the ability to
For any construction project, keeping accurate and comprehensive documentation is crucial to ensure transparency, accountability, and the ability to resolve any possible disputes. Proper record-keeping can also help identify potential risks and enable better decision-making, improving project outcomes. Below are job site documentation best practices and tips for keeping accurate and comprehensive records.
- Create a Project Documentation Plan
Before commencing any construction project, plan how documentation will be organized, managed, and stored. A project documentation plan outlines the types of documents that will be generated, the format in which they will be delivered, who will be responsible for their creation and storage, and how they will be accessed. A clear documentation plan ensures that all stakeholders are on the same page regarding the information that needs to be recorded and how it will be tracked.
- Use Standardized Forms
Using standardized forms for documentation helps ensure consistency and accuracy across all the records generated. The most common forms used in construction projects include daily logs, daily activity reports, change orders, submittals, and RFIs (Request for Information). When standard forms are utilized, it eliminates the possibility of different team members using different formats in the documentation process, simplifying the review process and making it easier to find the information when needed quickly.
- Document Daily Activity
Daily logs are a critical component of construction project documentation. They record all work performed on the site, including details of the activities undertaken, the people involved, the progress made, and any issues encountered. Daily logs should also include weather conditions, equipment used, materials delivered, subcontractor activities, and any safety incidents.
- Adopt Digital Tools
Digital tools, such as reality capture, help streamline the documentation process. Construction teams can easily store and access project data using digital tools in a secure environment. Automated reporting also helps ensure all required information is accurately obtained and organized.
- Track Changes
Change orders are formal requests for changes to the original contract specifications or scope, and they should be documented and tracked carefully. Each change order should contain a detailed description of the requested change, the reason for the change, the estimated cost and time required to make the change, and the approval process by all relevant parties. Change orders must be tracked and managed throughout the project life cycle and should be updated in the project schedule as soon as possible.
- Maintain a Submittal Log
Submittals are vital records during construction projects and typically include shop drawings, product data, and samples. Developing a submittal log can help ensure all submittals are completed and submitted on time. Submittal logs should include the type of document, date received, date reviewed, responsible party, status, and any comments and approval status.
- Organize Project Photos
Photos are a crucial method of documenting project progress. They help identify potential risks, compliance breaches, and quality defects and serve as evidence in case of claims and disputes. Maintaining a centralized photo repository using cloud-based photo management solutions is highly recommended, as this helps organize the photos and ensures everyone working on the project can access them.
- Keep Track of RFIs
Request for Information (RFI) is a crucial form of communication in the construction industry that documents official requests for information, clarifications, or changes to existing contract documents. A good practice is to track RFIs to ensure that all queries are adequately addressed, and it helps to keep track of the status of each RFI throughout the project.
- Monitor Daily Progress
Construction projects move quickly, and it’s critical to understand daily progress and delays clearly. Daily progress reports generally include summaries and schedules and break down the work completed, work to be completed, and any significant issues or concerns that may affect the project. The reports are typically filled out by construction supervisors or site managers who ensure they capture all significant events.
Bottom Line
Keeping accurate and comprehensive documentation is part of standard practice in the construction industry. Proper record-keeping ensures transparency and accountability, helps identify potential risks, and enables better decision-making, leading to improved project outcomes. By adopting best practices such as using standardized forms, tracking changes, and adopting digital tools, stakeholders in construction projects can achieve high-quality, accurate, reliable, and reliable project documentation.
