Running a construction business is no easy task. moving parts to keep everything running like a well-oiled machine. Business owners must ensure that every aspect of the enterprise is fine-tuned and efficient to achieve success.

While managing a business can be challenging, having the right tools can make a significant difference in streamlining operations and keeping everything running smoothly.

Drawing from years of onsite experience and managing our own construction businesses, we have identified the key pillars of a successful construction enterprise.

We’re here to make things easier. Here are the Six Pillars of Construction and how QS Knowledge can help you achieve success.

Pre-Construction

Every successful construction project begins with a solid pre-construction plan, which sets the tone for the entire process.

A comprehensive pre-construction plan should include detailed templates and documents covering tenders and estimations, along with a thorough understanding of client needs and project goals.

How We Can Help:

QS Knowledge’s digital construction systems assist contractors in creating comprehensive pre-construction plans, featuring editable templates, documents, and guides for tender documentation, tender tracking, estimations, business development, and bill of quantities templates.

Operations

Planning is one thing, but executing the plan is a whole different challenge.

Once construction begins, staying on top of all the project activities can become overwhelming. Contractors need to manage every element of the project from start to finish, site preparation, procurement, scheduling of different tasks like fit outs and installations, waste management, and quality control.

How We Can Help:

QS Knowledge’s digital construction system for Operations provides all the templates and documents contractors and subcontractors need to manage day-to-day project activities. This includes templates for contract documentation, design information, material requisitions, construction schedules, RFIs, technical submissions, and more.

Commercial

Commercial construction projects demand significant time and resources to ensure that all compliance regulations are met before, during, and after construction.

Multiple aspects require careful attention, such as building permits, commercial processes, subcontractor and supplier management, and accounts.

How We Can Help:

Our collection of templates for commercial construction projects includes all the essential documents contractors need to comply with regulations. These templates cover financial reporting, tender information, procurement schedules, warranties, and guidance on project approval, contract governance, and more.

Finance

Finance is a critical aspect of any construction business. Poor management can quickly lead to cash flow issues. Properly handling cash flow management, budgeting, tax compliance, and risk management are essential priorities.

Contractors must maintain an organised system to efficiently track expenses—from material budgets to payroll and labour costs.

How We Can Help:

QS Knowledge’s digital construction systems offer an extensive collection of finance-related templates and documents, including cash flow forecasts, accounts receivable and payable, tax compliance, internal auditing, and payroll. These templates seamlessly integrate with accounting programmes like Xero and QuickBooks.

HQSE (Health, Quality, Safety, Environment)

A successful construction business prioritises worker safety and well-being, delivers quality work, and protects the environment.

HQSE compliance is vital for every contractor, but it can be challenging to keep track of all the necessary documents and policies across projects.

How We Can Help:

Our digital construction system includes a comprehensive collection of editable documents for HQSE compliance. These cover policy statements on safety, health, and the environment, as well as topics like drug and alcohol policies, bribery risk assessments, fraud prevention, grievance procedures, and more.

People

Effective people management is crucial in any business, especially in construction. Managing the employee lifecycle—from recruitment to offboarding—is a key responsibility for construction business owners.

An organised system for documenting people management processes is essential for building and retaining a top-notch team.

How We Can Help:

Our editable digital templates for the People pillar cover all aspects of managing your workforce, including HR operations, training and development, performance reviews, and business compliance policies. These resources help keep your team informed, aligned, and performing at their best.

Managing a construction business effectively involves mastering several critical areas. From meticulous pre-construction planning and efficient operations to rigorous compliance with commercial, financial, and HQSE requirements, every aspect plays a crucial role in driving success.

With QS Knowledge’s solutions, you can transform these challenges into opportunities for growth. Our tools are designed to streamline your processes, so you can focus on what you do best—delivering outstanding results.