At iMark Commercial, we understand that bringing your commercial project to life is a complex journey. From the initial spark of an idea to the final ribbon-cutting ceremony, it takes meticulous planning, strategic execution, and a team of experts to navigate the process seamlessly.
This blog serves as a roadmap, outlining the five key phases of iMark’s project management approach: Feasibility, Design, Build, Commission, and Close. We’ll break down each stage, detailing the critical steps involved and highlighting how our expertise translates to value delivered for our clients.
Phase 1: Feasibility – Laying the Foundation for Success
Before any groundbreaking occurs, a solid foundation needs to be established. During the Feasibility phase, we collaborate closely with you, the project owner, to understand your vision, goals, and budget. Here’s what we focus on:
- Strategy & Preparation: We delve deep into your project needs, defining success metrics and exploring various approaches.
- Support Strategies & Initiatives: We identify potential challenges and brainstorm solutions to mitigate risks and ensure project viability.
- Develop Phasing & Strategies: We break down the project into manageable phases, outlining a clear roadmap for execution.
- Lease & Workletter Review: We scrutinize lease agreements and work letters to identify potential roadblocks and ensure alignment with your project goals.
- Procurement Guidelines: We establish clear protocols for selecting vendors and contractors, ensuring transparency and cost control.
- Design Standards: We define design parameters to ensure the project aligns with your aesthetic vision and functional requirements.
- Site Logistics/Safety: We develop a comprehensive plan for site access, traffic control, and safety during construction.
- Long Lead Items ID: We identify materials with extended lead times to ensure their timely procurement and avoid project delays.
- Master Budget: We meticulously craft a detailed budget that takes into account all project costs, from construction to furnishings.
- Master Schedule: We establish a realistic and attainable timeline for each project phase, ensuring a smooth transition between stages.
Phase 2: Design – Transforming Vision into Reality
With a solid foundation in place, we move on to translating your dream into a tangible design. Here’s how we navigate this crucial stage:
- Concept to Documentation: We partner with you to refine your concept and engage a team of architects, engineers, and designers who share your vision.
- Manage Consultant Team Selection: We leverage our extensive network to assemble a team of experienced consultants with expertise tailored to your project’s specific needs.
- Validate Design Against Budget & Timeline: We ensure the design adheres to your budgetary constraints and established timeline.
- Coordinate Value Engineering: We explore cost-saving opportunities through innovative design solutions without compromising quality or functionality.
- Contract Negotiation: We negotiate contracts with consultants, ensuring fair pricing and clear deliverables.
- Review Drawings for Constructability: We meticulously review architectural drawings to identify potential construction challenges and ensure a smooth build process.
- Cash Flow Projection: We develop a cash flow projection to anticipate financial needs throughout the construction phase.
Phase 3: Build – Turning Plans into Action
With a finalized design in hand, it’s time to break ground! This phase is all about meticulous execution and ensuring the project adheres to the established plans. Here’s what we focus on:
- Construction: We manage the selection of a qualified General Contractor (GC) who shares our commitment to quality and efficiency.
- Lead Project Meetings & Process: We facilitate regular project meetings, keeping all stakeholders informed and ensuring alignment.
- Scrutinize Change Order Process: We meticulously review all change orders to ensure they are necessary and cost-effective.
- Manage GC/CM: We provide ongoing oversight and management of the GC/Construction Manager (CM) to ensure adherence to the project plan.
- Detailed Master Schedule: We meticulously monitor the construction schedule, identifying and mitigating potential delays.
- Review Payment Process: We review construction invoices and ensure accurate and timely payments to keep the project moving forward.
- Evaluate Change Orders: We analyze all change orders, ensuring they are justified and contribute to the project’s value proposition.
- Dispute Resolution: We act as a mediator in case of any disputes that may arise during construction.
- Coordinate Vendors: We oversee vendor deliveries and installations, ensuring they align with the construction schedule.
Phase 4: Commission – Powering Up for Occupancy (continued)
- Move-in Systems Start: We coordinate the activation of essential systems like heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), ensuring a comfortable and functional environment.
- Manage Document Purge & Reduction Campaign: We streamline project documentation by identifying and eliminating unnecessary copies, ensuring efficient record-keeping.
- Develop Move Plan: We craft a detailed move-in plan, outlining logistics for equipment, furniture, and personnel.
- Develop From/To Matrix: We create a comprehensive “from/to” matrix that assigns designated locations for all equipment and furniture during the move-in process.
- Coordinate Move: We manage the move-in process, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition into the new space.
Phase 5: Close – Ensuring a Seamless Handover
The final phase signifies the culmination of your project journey. Here’s how we ensure a seamless handover and a successful project closure:
- Occupy In-use: We facilitate the official occupancy of the space and address any initial concerns from occupants.
- Collect Closeout Materials: We gather all necessary documentation, including warranties, as-built drawings, and occupancy permits, for your records.
- Coordinate Project Punch-lists: We meticulously address any outstanding punch-list items identified during final inspections.
- Coordinate Occupancy Permits: We ensure all required occupancy permits are obtained and in place.
- Relocation Coordination & Occupancy Oversight: We provide oversight during the initial occupancy period, ensuring a smooth transition for your team.
- Reconcile Project Financials: We reconcile all project financials and ensure all invoices are paid and accounted for.
- Coordinate Project Closeout Documentation: We compile and organize all project documentation for future reference.
The iMark Project Management Difference
Throughout all five phases, our core project team, comprised of experienced professionals like project managers, real estate brokers, architects, and engineers, works collaboratively to achieve your vision. Here’s what sets iMark apart:
- Tailored Solutions: We understand that every project is unique. Our approach is flexible, and we customize our services to meet your specific needs and budget.
- Expertise: With extensive experience managing the entire construction lifecycle, we anticipate challenges and proactively develop solutions.
- Comprehensive Support: From initial concept development to final occupancy, we provide comprehensive support every step of the way.
- Value Delivered: We are committed to delivering exceptional value. Our focus on cost control, efficient execution, and value engineering ensures you get the most out of your investment.
Ready to Build Your Future?
Whether you’re brimming with a conceptual vision or navigating complex city regulations, iMark is here to be your trusted partner. Let us guide you through the journey of transforming your vision into a thriving reality. Contact us today for a personalized consultation and take the first step towards building your future!
