The True Impacts of Late Deliverables at the Construction Site

The team found that every significant late deliverable it identified would fit into one of 10 categories which benefited further analysis and tool development. Furthermore, RT-300 found that the impacts of late deliverables were even more numerous and diverse than the deliverables themselves. The team identified 24 project impact categories. (RS300-1, p. 13)

Of the five project pillars, cost, schedule, and organizational capacity are those most affected by late deliverables. The latter makes it clear the importance that industry professionals recognize the ways late deliverables affect individuals and groups. (RS300-1, p. 16)

Although the data may suggest that safety outcomes of a project may not be as affected by a late deliverable, additional resources must be added to maintain an acceptable level of performance and meet the required objectives. The same can be said for the quality pillar. 

 

RT-300 sees a major cause of concern for the construction industry. That is, the results show that industry professionals perceive the most common late deliverables as the most severe. Recognizing this trend, understanding the ripple effects late deliverables have on a project, and identifying the potential impacts before they occur could help make the more severe impacts occur much less frequently. (RS300-1, p. 21)

 

Greater awareness of the impact of late deliverables will foster greater focus on deliverables, thus ensuring the following improvements:

• All functions understanding the importance their on-schedue performance has on project success
• Regular monitoring of delivery dates
• Early mitigation actions
• Improved alignment between owners, contractors, project team members, and project sponsors

(RS300-1, p. 23)