Construction of any large or small facility starts with an idea and market justification (if the project has a commercial component).

When the developer or investor takes a decision on what the project is, the work starts on translating the idea into a well-designed business model and architectural solution.

The key to success to 70% is the availability of the correct and professionally developed schematic and detailed design.

When choosing an architectural company, the main thing is not to make a mistake. Mistakes in the design development will cost much at the construction stage or, moreover, during operation of the commissioned building.

Equally important for implementation of a successful commercial property is the factor of choosing the most suitable site. The site must comply with the market positioning of the facility and feasibility study of the facility.

In general, the entire construction process can be deemed to be divided into four main stages:

1. Preparatory phase of construction or “zero cycle”
2. General construction works
3. Building services
4. Finishing

In this article we will talk about preparatory work.

The zero cycle requires careful preparation and a systematic approach. It is important here not to miss many important details. The general organization of the entire construction process depends on how well the EPC Contractor approaches this stage of work.

The organization of the zero cycle work can be divided into two phases:

• general organizational preparation;
• preparation for construction and installation works

Organizational preparation includes:

• Consolidation and study of design and cost estimate documentation by engineers and technical staff, of contractual documentation and conditions of construction;
• Providing the construction site with access roads, electric power, water supply, as well as all required infrastructure;
• Cleaning the construction site;
• Arrangement of building materials and equipment delivery
• Work camp equipping

Preparation for construction and assembly works at the facility includes:

• Development of Method Statement including the Health and Safety system;
• Conclusion of contracts and subcontracts;
• Development of the work schedule and organization of work of construction crews.

One of the main documents in organization and management of construction, which describes organizational and technological situation at the facility, is a construction schedule. This is the main management tool at the construction stage, coordinating the equal use of resources and technologies, as well as the timely start and completion of all stages of construction installation and finishing at the facility.

The criteria used in scheduling are the following:

• Optimization of time frames required for work;
• Uniformity of resources use;
• Minimization of resource costs;
• Getting the maximum profit from the construction process itself (for example, reducing construction time).

Organization of preparatory work is not an unimportant indicator of the EPC Contractor professionalism and high level of all work processes management