Real estate developers, corporations and organizations with a capital expenditure program for new construction have a big incentive to pick the right contractors for the job. Referrals are great, but they don’t necessarily tell you what your experience will be like with a given company. But there are other ways to spot a trustworthy partner that will provide the best services and outcomes in a whole range of areas:
- Material & Equipment Procurement
- Familiarity with Key Processes
- Updated Industry Standards
- Budgeting and Timelines
- Project Management
- Worker Coordination
Picking a contractor likely to provide ideal results in each of these areas can be a challenge. That’s why your best bet is to search for certain vital qualities and experiences early on in the vetting process.
Diversity of Commercial Building Skills and Construction Services
Do you trust your prospective partner to coordinate and oversee the range of skills necessary to bring your dream building to life? Not every industrial contractor has also managed the construction of senior centers and office parks. The same goes for multi-family residences, hotels, and institutional spaces.
Due to the diversity of projects that W. A. RANDOLPH, INC., has overseen, we have knowledge that only first-hand experience can provide. We have handled excavation work on tough urban foundations in tight settings. Our workers have used cold formed steel panelized construction to enhance the quality and speed on expansive luxury developments. Our background also demonstratesoutstanding amenities and living spaces through successful partnerships such as the Wheeling Town Center.
Professional Training, Licensing and Access to Specialty Tradespeople
Ask your contractor for a list of licensing and professional certifications that are applicable to your project. For example, a company that wants to venture into green remodeling will need the necessary training, certification and materials. At W. A. RANDOLPH, INC., our team members bring expertise and training in a wide range of area that will be crucial to the proper execution of your project:
- Civil Engineering
- Industrial Technology
- Construction Engineering
- Field Operations
- Construction Business Management
- Construction Project Management
Demonstrated Excellence in Past Design-Build Projects
Any design-build contractor you are considering should be able to demonstrate a history of impressive accomplishments – such as our recent mixed-used retail project in Chicago that was delivered under challenging site constraints. There’s a reason Engineering News-Record (ENR), which helps construction industry professionals do their jobs better, regularly rates William W. A. RANDOLPH, INC., as a top private construction company.
If possible, speak to people at recent project sites where the prospective company worked. Ask if they used exceptional workers and provided organized, high-quality work product that met or exceeded expectations. That way you’ll get a more relevant, reliable opinion on what you can expect from the contractor you’re considering.
High Standards of Practice at Construction Sites
Find out about the standards of practice that their subcontractors follow. How do they treat the work site itself? Are tools and materials lying around, or does it appear clear and organized? Are all of the necessary safety measures in place? Your goal is to become more informed about their general operation practices. They should be able to provide details that tell you how they measure building standards and safety standards.
Industry Affiliations
Industry memberships and affiliations can be a sign of other important factors. You want reassurance that the company in question stays up to date with industry trends, from changing regulations to sustainable and efficient building practices. Their affiliations may show they have high standards in the partners they select as well as in their own work practices. Those local ties can signal a familiarity with work processes in a given region. W. A. RANDOLPH, INC. stays on top of trends through a mix of associations and affiliations, including:
- Retail Contractors Association (RCA)
- International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC)
- Association of Subcontractors & Affiliates (ASA) Chicago
- Local Construction Associations
Exceptional Customer Service
Hard skills are crucial, but don’t overlook the role that good quality customer service will play throughout your project. Good customer service is key to building long-term relationships in this industry. It helps keep the different players on track and ensures key deadlines are met.
Consult with W. A. RANDOLPH, INC., on Your Next Construction Project
At W. A. RANDOLPH, INC., we will meet with your team to discuss your preferred budget, timeline and outcomes so you know just what to expect. The range and scope of services we provide allow us to oversee commercial projects that showcase each individual brand.
Contact W. A. RANDOLPH, INC. for a free consultation on your next open-space project.
