An infrastructure project is the development and building of physical structures necessary for the operation of a society or economy. This includes everything from roadways to water systems to power plants and airports. Infrastructure projects allow us to physically function and they play a crucial role in the economy by connecting businesses with their workforces and customers. The Erie Canal made New York a hub of commerce, the Transcontinental Railroad unified markets and accelerated westward expansion, and modern transportation infrastructure has created more efficient and safer roadways for everyone.
Because infrastructure facilities are used so heavily, they experience a great deal of wear-and-tear and need to be regularly maintained. These types of projects are typically larger in scale than other construction jobs, and they usually take longer to complete as well. This makes it important to communicate clearly throughout the entire project.
A solid communication plan will also help avoid scope creep, which is when unexpected changes or additions to a project are not accounted for at the start. The best way to prevent scope creep is to define clear goals, identify stakeholders, and set expectations from the start.
When it comes to communicating during infrastructure projects, a lot of the work is done in populated areas, so the need for clear communication is especially vital. Keeping the community informed from start to finish can help minimize safety issues and road closures. Providing a timeline for completion is another great way to keep the community involved. This will let them know what to expect and make them feel valued.