A construction project arises from an entity’s need to build something. No matter what the project type and size, there are certain variables that always apply, during the earliest decision making about that project, as far as its scope and size.

These factors include but no limited to:

• The question of what is needed exactly and in what size
• The available budget and time to build the project
• Cost benefit analysis in the long term: Thich includes also the operational, maintenance costs vs expected revenue and cost savings as a result of the project
• Available technical capabilities: This is mainly about construction capability, not design. For design as long as reliable firms are employed, the architects and engineers are generally able to achieve whatever the owner desires. But for construction, technical capabilities available in some undeveloped, remote regions may be a somewhat limiting factor unless outside sources are used.
• Materials that are within reach: This is generally not a problem but a matter of cost.
• Constructability of the project: This item here is for initial decision about a project. NOT about designing the project drawings by keeping in mind construction issues – that is a whole other critical important subject which we mention in various places on this site. Here we mean considering any major constructability issues that might come into question during making initial decision about a project.
• Site conditions

The items above apply to any type and size of project. For large scale projects, socioeconomical, administrative, political, environmental issues are also of concern.

Although this particular post may seem short, it serves an important purpose on our website: In many of our other posts that we talk about construction projects, when we mention the specific criteria to consider about that particular project, we also mention this post, which lists the general items that apply to any other type of project.

Adapted from the author’s published work: How to Construct: Introduction to Civil Engineering, Structures and Construction

Post By: A. Tuter

Terms of Use: Unauthorized copying is prohibited; we maintain dated records to document original publication. Content may contain inaccuracies. See our Terms Page.