How to Forecast Large Construction Projects
Designed specifically for mechanical project managers, learn how to systematically plan, track and create consistent rolling forecasts for large construction projects. This three-part online program is led by Mechanical Engineer, Leo Di Croce, a former Project Manager with Modern Niagara and Mechanical Design Manager with Ellis Don. This jam-packed program includes a commercial building case study, and all students receive 4Cast Pro, a 4-in-1 workbook that helps Project Managers plan, track, forecast and more.
Testimonials
"a lot of info packed into a short period of time; the perfect balance of efficient use of time, and valuable information."
"Thanks again Leo for hosting another really informative session. [This helps our team] further understand the math and science behind the processes [that we] use today. It’s one thing to know how to use the apps etc, but sometimes we can get lost and forget what it is we are really trying to measure, and why."
"…putting the idea of typical tasks into play. The spread sheet… gives the logic/formulae to apply thinking in installed units vs work per floor."
Course Outline
Session 1: Planning
Students dive right into a case study by reviewing the drawings and specs of a large commercial tower and searching for gaps and overlaps in scope before setting up the job, which comprises three components: the budget, the construction schedule and the billing breakdown. Students learn what these three have in common and how to capitalize on their integration.
Session 2: Productivity
Students continue the case study, exploring various types of work breakdown structures (WBS’s) and learning why some WBS’s are better at driving productivity than others. Starting with a labour plan, students build their own spreadsheet and learn how to track progress and calculate productivity. Various productivity scenarios are modeled including one that supports construction claims, using near real-time data.
Session 3: Forecasting
Students conclude the case study by reporting the outcomes at various stages of construction. Financial outcomes are reported for months one, two, three, etc. Basic formulas – and more advanced techniques – are used to calculate costs at completion and variances for labour, material, equipment and subcontracts. Students will also learn how delayed starts and schedule compressions affect a project’s s-curve in interesting and meaningful ways.
Instructor Leo Di Croce
Course designer and instructor, Leo Di Croce, is a professional engineer with almost 30 years of experience, designing and managing mechanical construction projects in Canada. Leo has worked for EllisDon, Modern Niagara and other large contractors, supporting the pursuit, execution, and closeout of Class-A buildings. The value of the construction projects he has managed to date exceeds $1 billion.
