Most conditions of contract nowadays require a contractor to prepare and submit regular status programs. Notwithstanding contractual obligations, it is important to prepare and submit regular status programs throughout the lifespan of a project.
Establishing the progress of work undertaken on a project at regular intervals not only provides a record of the actual progress but also provides a useful tool to determine whether a contractor is ahead, on, or behind schedule. It is important that the progress of all work is recorded including design, procurement, construction and commissioning to ensure that the status program accurately reflects the overall project.
It is important that all activities and actions required to complete the scope of works are represented in the status program, including activities that are the responsibility of others (such as the Principal). Any changes to the methodology (sequence), scope of work and timing should be carefully considered when preparing the status program. This not only establishes an accurate forecast to complete the works, but also ensures that all parties are aware of timing obligations.
The result of a status program that accurately reflects both the work completed, and the forecast work to complete, is a tool which reflects the status and contemporaneous critical path of the project. Such a tool is not only crucial to manage a project successfully but is also an important aid to model delays, mitigation and acceleration and to assist in both the preparation and assessment of extension of time claims.
Chris Gould - Principal
cgould@hindsblunden.com.au
