Importance of Communication During the Commissioning Phase

 

Global Commissioning Companies

•        It is the responsibility of the commissioning authority to make sure that all building systems perform optimally while meeting the functional and operational requirements of the owner.

•        Typically, global commissioning companies begin by setting expectations and explaining their role. The initial commissioning meetings should be held during the design and construction phases, involving a representative from every party.

•        Keep reading to know what the commissioning authority needs from the team during the construction phase and what the standards for communication should look like.

Effective Use of Emails

•        You may think that emails make it easier for a team to maintain communication. But, is it so?! Note that commissioning is not always on the top of minds of project managers, but they are responsible for all types of outgoing and incoming communications.

•        Countless emails –comprising key information pertaining to commissioning – are exchanged between project managers and the design team without the inclusion of the commissioning authority.

•        Ignoring the commissioning authority in such important discussions not only lowers the value to the project owner, but it can also degrade the value of the whole commissioning process and may even result in missed opportunities.

Advanced Commissioning Software

•        Project teams often use electronic project information management tools to monitor and maintain records and documentation.

•        Many people, these days, rely on advanced commissioning software to get this job done. This is particularly beneficial in reviewing the majority of RFIs, drawings and submittals.

•        However, it still cannot replace a courtesy call or a time-sensitive email to the commissioning authority to inform them about any early equipment installation or air handler equipment start-ups.

Be Available & Connected

•        The commissioning authority should expect enough emails and other forms of communication from the other team members working on the project, but it is their personal responsibility to have regular updates on the project and interact directly with the project managers and team members throughout the construction phase.

•        This can easily be done by sending emails and making friendly calls, being actively involved in construction-specific meetings, and visiting the site to meet with the installation team members on whom they depend for resolving deficiencies.

On-Site Conversation

•        With the installation of duct-work, piping and other mechanical equipment is complete, the commissioning authority requires more time to spend on site.

•        Site visits are a great way to connect and reconnect with the installation team members, verify their installation-specific schedules and gather their views on how the project is progressing.

•        You can also consider having informal one-on-one meetings with the project managers of mechanical and construction teams.