Access as a predecessor
The specialist does not start because a bar says so. The schedule shows the access activity it depends on.
SPECIALIST SUBCONTRACTORS
Planning and Scheduling for Specialist Subcontractors
Specialist subcontractors lose money when the master schedule moves and their own plan does not. They need a programme that shows their constraints clearly.
Specialist subcontractors
Protect the specialist path inside someone else's programme
A façade, structure, interiors or building-services specialist is usually given dates by a main contractor. Those dates are not always logic. Materials, design approval, access and preceding trades decide whether the specialist can start. If that chain is only in a mailbox, the specialist cannot show why it was late.
We build a subcontractor schedule that ties procurement and labour to the access the main contractor has actually promised. It is detailed where the specialist carries risk, and it names the interface milestones the main contract must hit. When access slips, the effect on the specialist finish is visible immediately.
The product is small enough for a project manager to update weekly, and solid enough to attach to a notice.
On the programme
What has to be got right
Materials lead times
Shop drawings, approval and manufacture are on the path when they can delay installation.
Notice evidence
Date movement is recorded against the interface, which is what a commercial letter needs.
How we help
How EVM Solutions supports the team
Planning, scheduling and project controls from a Manchester-based consultancy, deployed to the programme rather than tied to a local office in every city.
Subcontract baselines
A programme the specialist can submit, aligned to the main contract milestones it has accepted.
Weekly constraint reviews
A short plan focused on what is blocking the next activities.
Delay demonstration
A clear fragnet when main-contractor access or information is late.
Also in this section
Other construction companies
Main Contractors
Integrated baselines, package interfaces and look-aheads a main contractor can submit and maintain.
Read the pageDevelopers
Stage gates from land and design through construction, for developers who need a date they can fund.
Read the pageCivil Engineering
Linear works, possessions and utility interfaces for civil engineering contractors.
Read the pageMEP Contractors
Design release, long-lead plant, area installation and commissioning for MEP contractors.
Read the pageFit-Out Contractors
Sectional access, tenant changes and handover inspections for fit-out contractors.
Read the pageFAQ
Questions we are often asked
Is this for named trades only?
No. Any specialist with procurement, design approval or access risk can use the same model. MEP and fit-out also have their own pages because their commissioning and handover issues differ.
Do you argue with the main contractor for us?
We prepare the schedule evidence. The commercial team sends the notice. We do not replace your contract administrator.
Can this sit in Microsoft Project if the main contract is in P6?
Yes, if the interface milestones match. We prefer one system where the specialist is expected to submit in the main contractor tool.