Field Services teams are known to be the first ones in and the last ones out of a project. From initial site selection to final inspection, field engineering provides on-site problem-solving and recommendations to keep projects moving on time, on budget, and to specifications.

However, that doesn’t mean every project is without its hiccups. While you can plan to avoid as many hurdles as possible, sometimes they arise. That’s why it’s important to have a strong team in the field to navigate any issues that arise during a project. These are some common pitfalls and how you can avoid them.

Poor Scope Definition

Just like you wouldn’t set out on a road trip without a map, you wouldn’t start a project without properly defined scope of work. Each project should begin with clearly defined goals, constraints, deliverables, and responsibilities for all parties involved. By having a detailed scope from the very beginning, there will be less confusion about what a job well done looks like at the end.

Scope Creep

Scope creep occurs when timelines, budgets, and requirements of a project start to balloon due to small changes in the project scope. Any changes to the scope of work once a project is underway should be clearly communicated and go through a formal change process to prevent uncontrolled expansion.

Inadequate Budget Planning

Poor budget planning and inaccurate cost estimations can lead to real headaches as a project gets further down the road. You could encounter cost overruns, project delays, and reduced quality by failing to adequately plan for the budget of a project. Investing time up front in project planning and conducting detailed cost analysis is worth it to avoid these problems later.

Unrealistic Timelines

A schedule can’t just look good on paper. It must be realistic for completing a project safely, properly, and on budget. Compressed timelines can lead to cutting corners, lower quality work, and work that doesn’t hold up over time. Base project schedules on resources available, and don’t forget to account for regulatory approvals.

Misaligned Stakeholder Expectations

Projects most often have many stakeholders. Keeping all those stakeholders on the same page is vital to the success of any project. Things such as conflicting priorities, lack of transparency, and miscommunication can lead to delays and different ideas of what success looks like. By providing regular updates and reporting, everyone stays in the loop and pulls toward a common goal.

Poor Communication & Documentation

A good rule on the job site is that if something isn’t documented, then it doesn’t happen. Providing consistent updates through daily reporting is vital and something field services teams should take seriously. The best insurance policy against poor communication is good documentation.

Choosing the Wrong Engineer/Team

Choosing an engineer or team from the wrong area of expertise can derail a project before it even starts. When choosing a partner for a project, it’s important to always verify certifications and look for teams with experience in similar projects.

Ignoring Regulatory Requirements

Compliance and regulations are not optional. Ignoring these requirements can lead to fines and shutdowns, which mean costly delays and more. By involving proper inspections and oversight throughout a project, everything will move so much more smoothly.

Projects succeed when planning, communication, and execution in the field all work together. By avoiding these pitfalls, teams can deliver projects on time and on budget. This builds trust and confidence with everyone involved.