The Secrets to Persuading Clients Through Design Changes
For civil engineers, civil servants (as project owners) are"The Lethargic Mountain"is something that’s always a source of concern.
I’d like to share the secrets of how to get the “lazy mountain” moving when making design changes.
For now, only the “God of Construction” can write about such practical techniques and candid insights. This is another problem facing the construction industry.
However, it seems that some experts are finally beginning to realize this “fact.”
1. Strict Adherence to the Principle of Written Documentation
First of all, unless the client issues a change order, we absolutely will not proceed with on-site construction! It is crucial that we never compromise.
A common scenario is “verbal instructions from the client,” but just how many contractors are being taken in by this!
Ultimately, if things don’t go the client’s way, they’ll casually say things like, “I never gave such instructions” or “I never said that”—just like some politician—so you need to be careful.
To protect yourself, make sure to document everything in writing. Strict adherence to the principle of written documentation is the only way to ensure that both the client and the contractor fulfill their respective obligations.
Don't settle for less.
2. If the supervising staff member cannot resolve the issue, report it to the chief supervising staff member.
Don't let yourself be pushed around by a strange supervisor.
Supervisors don't have much authority. In particular, they have no authority when it comes to money.
So, let's keep our reactions to incompetent supervisors to a minimum.
If speaking with the supervising staff member does not resolve the issue, it is important to submit a written request for improvement to the chief supervising officer.
3. Beware of the “trial construction” smokescreen
Don't just give in to the excuse of a "trial installation"!
Will this result in a design change?
The contractor said, “We’d like to conduct a trial installation,” so the client approved it.
However,
"Not subject to design changes"
"It is, after all, the contractor's ingenuity."
Ultimately, there’s a “high” chance the game will end with that mindset.
Why is that?
This is because of the client's pride and the fact that the client does not understand the cost estimation method based on trial construction.
Everything is attributed to “corporate efforts and ingenuity.” Be careful, as this is often taken at face value.
4. The OB Strategy Won't Work
We must recognize that we are in an era where the "OB Strategy" no longer works.
The days of focusing on what alumni do are over...
It seems there are still a few contracting agencies that cling to this practice, but it’s no longer feasible. Given the current social climate, it’s out of the question to bring up alumni connections.
If there is one, I suppose it would have to be bribery...
If we get caught up in something like that, the company will go under.
5. Communication with Supervisors
Even if the supervisor is a bit odd, it’s important to interact with them in a mature manner.
Let's work on communicating with our supervisors.
However, companies should take these measures only to the extent that they do not affect their profit and loss.
However, if they give you instructions regarding money that are confusing or unreasonable, please ignore them.
Just brush it off by saying, “Since I haven’t received any official instructions from the supervising manager…”
Ultimately, it’s important to strictly adhere to the principle of written documentation!
The client and the contractor are on equal footing
The client is by no means superior.
Please keep in mind that the client and the contractor are on an “equal footing.”
In fact, I think the contractor who ultimately builds the project is the one who deserves the praise.
Whether it’s a job that benefits society and others, or one that is appreciated by just one resident versus 100 people, the value of the work is the same.
Ultimately, it’s enough for me to do my job well and earn the gratitude of the residents. Of course, while ensuring we make a profit as well…
