In the ever-evolving landscape of construction and maintenance , selecting the right technologies to effectively solve problems is crucial for success. But these days, it can seem as though there is a never-ending list of point solutions that address issues you didn’t even know you had. This can make it disorienting and difficult to determine the right solution for the job.
At the risk of oversimplifying the construction technology landscape, many of the key legacy technology players fall into three buckets: Project Management, Safety Management , and Asset/Maintenance Management . However, with rework and poor work quality contributing to upwards of 20% of total project costs, many companies prioritize and rely upon another type of system: The Quality Management System (QMS).
With strong roots in both the manufacturing, aerospace, and medical industries, an effective QMS offers a proven approach to ensuring work quality at scale. Defined by the American Society for Quality as “a formalized system that documents processes, procedures, and responsibilities for achieving quality policies and objectives,” a QMS can help companies consistently prioritize work quality in the most cost-efficient manner.
In this article we’ll explore how a QMS differs from other technology categories, their specific applications in construction and maintenance, and the standards that guide their implementation.
Quality Management System (QMS)
To begin, let’s define the QMS, the key activities it manages, and some of the providers. A QMS offers a framework essential for ensuring the consistent quality of construction and maintenance processes, and ultimately meeting customer/owner requirements. The primary goal is to improve quality while minimizing waste and rework, particularly critical in the construction and maintenance sectors.
Key Activities: Defining construction and maintenance policies, documenting procedures, conducting audits, providing training, and continually measuring and improving processes.
Technology Providers: Noteworthy QMS technology providers catering to the construction and maintenance industries include Pipeline SMS, DigiQC, SiteMate, and, yours truly, the Cumulus QMS.
Project Management System
Project Management Systems are indispensable for orchestrating the complex and unique phases of construction and maintenance projects. The primary focus lies in enhancing collaboration, efficient resource allocation, meticulous risk management, and strict adherence to project deadlines.
Key Activities: Developing project timelines and milestones, monitoring construction and maintenance project progress, and ensuring task completion within the specified timeframes.
Technology Providers: Leading Project Management technology providers for construction and maintenance projects include Procore, Fieldwire, Kahua, Buildertrend, Aveva, and more.
Safety Management System in Construction and Maintenance
Now, let’s dig into Safety Management Systems, which are paramount in the construction and maintenance industries to ensure worker safety and regulatory compliance. These systems center around site observations to minimize workplace hazards, prevent accidents, and ensure emergency preparedness.
Key Activities: Hazard identification, safety audits, inspections, and documentation of health and safety protocols specific to construction and maintenance sites.
Technology Providers: Widely used Safety Management technology providers in construction and maintenance include SafetyCulture, HCSS, Raken, and more.
Asset/Maintenance Management System in Construction and Maintenance
Finally, the Asset/Maintenance Management System is the linchpin for managing physical assets in construction and maintenance, aiming to maximize their lifespan and utilization.
Key Activities: Asset tracking, maintenance, risk management, managing spare parts, resource allocation, and scheduling and tracking technician activities in the construction and maintenance sectors.
Technology Providers: Notable Asset/Maintenance Management technology providers for construction and maintenance include Limble, Novade, Pinnacle, Upkeep, Fiix, and others.
Differences in Focus and Goals
To illustrate the key differences in these systems more directly, consider their focus and goals within the construction and maintenance industries in contrast to one another:
Standards
To further illustrate their differences, each system also addresses different standards:
- Quality Management System: ISO 9000/9001
- Project Management System: ISO 21500, PMBoK
- Safety Management System: ISO 45001, OSHA CFR
- Asset/Maintenance Management System: ISO 55000
Conclusion
In the realm of construction and maintenance, where precision and safety are paramount, understanding the importance of an effective QMS is imperative. With the combination of Project Management, Safety Management, and Asset/Maintenance Management, these systems provide the foundation for streamlined operations, enhanced efficiency, and lasting success in the dynamic construction and maintenance environments.
