You would not believe it: U.S. construction has spent more for 50 years… but become less productive. Since the 1970s, U.S. construction productivity has dropped 40%, while most other industries have surged ahead. Despite record spending on infrastructure, clean energy, and manufacturing, productivity in U.S. construction has declined compared to other industries. The paradox is clear: High investment ≠ high efficiency. When early planning is overlooked, the result is predictable: • Delays • Rework • Cost overruns The lesson is simple: Productivity does not come from bigger budgets. It comes from better foresight. Early-stage planning, constructability reviews, and risk identification can turn dollars spent into real outcomes. Question for you: Have you seen a project where early planning turned the tide or where the lack of it set the team back? #Construction #Preconstruction #Constructability #ProjectDelivery #RiskManagement #ProjectSuccess
Dave You’ve raised all great points! But suppose a “project” was never really needed, such as the “bridge to nowhere” or the California high speed rail line! I’m guessing the results may show more favorably for the truely justified projects if those types of projects were removed from the mix!
I would argue that we are actually over planning which decreases the productivity. Meaning the permitting process takes years not months. We have project(s) where the approval process thakes year(s). We have spent more time “massaging” JHAs over actually doing the task we planned for. In some cases we have spent more money on safety equipment than the tools needed for the specific task. Ladders are close to being extinct. If you can’t get a scissor lift to it you are forced to build a scaffolding. That impacts productivity and costs.
Founder & CEO at David Fields Consulting Services LLC | Helping Owners Successfully Navigate the Building Development Process, Expert in Project Risk Avoidance | OPTSTRUCTION Constructability Review
1wDoes bringing builders in earlier improve outcomes, or is the design-first path still more effective in your view?