By Rohan Grant

As a seasoned entrepreneur of 25 years in the construction industry, I’ve witnessed firsthand, and noted with concern, particular behaviors from new developers who are entering the space and embarking on construction projects.

From my observations and interactions, while many of these developers have the financial means to kickstart their ventures (kudos to them), they often lack a deep understanding of the intricate steps and processes involved in taking a development from conception to completion.

This covert knowledge gap not only affects the project timeline but also has significant implications for the contractors they engage and the overall project success.

One of the most pressing issues I’ve noticed is that new developers often underestimate the complexity of the construction process. Yes, they have the capital and access to the financial resources required to fund a project, but without a clear understanding of cash flow management and project management principles, they struggle to keep the project on track.

This lack of understanding leads to delays, budget overruns, and strained relationships with stakeholders, especially us as contractors.

From my vantage point, there is also often a disconnect between these new developers and general construction professionals, such as architects, engineers, and project managers.

Developers are often tempted to micromanage every aspect of the project, disregarding the expertise and recommendations of these professionals.

This interference not only hampers the efficiency of the project but also undermines the expertise of the professionals hired to ensure its success. Remember, “bird cyaan fly pon one wing”, so let us give credit where it is due.

Another issue that I have noticed is the tendency for some new developers to make changes to the project scope midway through construction. While changes are sometimes necessary due to unforeseen circumstances or evolving project requirements, frequent and unnecessary changes will have a significant impact on both the timeline and the budget.

Developers need to understand the correlation between changes and costs and be prepared to make informed decisions that balance their vision with practical considerations.

Lastly, and perhaps most egregious is the concerning trend of developers firing project professionals/consultants at the slightest sign of disagreement or delay. While it’s understandable that developers want to ensure that projects are completed to their satisfaction, terminating contracts prematurely can lead to legal disputes, delays, and additional costs. Instead, developers should focus on fostering open communication and collaboration with contractors, allowing them to do their jobs effectively while holding them accountable for their performance.

The road to successful construction projects in Jamaica requires a collaborative and informed approach from all stakeholders. As someone deeply rooted in this industry for over 25 years, I believe that bridging the gap between new developers and seasoned construction professionals is essential for sustainable growth and success. By fostering open communication, investing in knowledge, and trusting the expertise of professionals, we can pave the way for smoother project execution, enhanced efficiency, and ultimately, a thriving construction industry that benefits everyone involved.

Let’s build together, with understanding, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence.

Rohan Grant is the Managing Director of Garco Construction.