It is the responsibility of the commissioning authority to make sure that all building systems perform optimally while meeting the functional and operational requirements of the owner. Dozens of technical skills are involved in the process. However, there is one soft skill, which is equally important, when it is about the commissioning process. Yes, we are talking about “communication”!
2. Global Commissioning
Companies
• It is the responsibility of the commissioning authority to make sure that
all building systems perform optimally while meeting the functional and
operational requirements of the owner.
• Typically, global commissioning companies begin by setting
expectations and explaining their role. The initial commissioning
meetings should be held during the design and construction phases,
involving a representative from every party.
• Keep reading to know what the commissioning authority needs from
the team during the construction phase and what the standards for
communication should look like.
3. Effective Use of Emails
• You may think that emails make it easier for a team to maintain
communication. But, is it so?! Note that commissioning is not always
on the top of minds of project managers, but they are responsible for
all types of outgoing and incoming communications.
• Countless emails –comprising key information pertaining to
commissioning – are exchanged between project managers and the
design team without the inclusion of the commissioning authority.
• Ignoring the commissioning authority in such important discussions
not only lowers the value to the project owner, but it can also degrade
the value of the whole commissioning process and may even result in
missed opportunities.
4. Advanced Commissioning
Software
• Project teams often use electronic project information management
tools to monitor and maintain records and documentation.
• Many people, these days, rely on advanced commissioning software
to get this job done. This is particularly beneficial in reviewing the
majority of RFIs, drawings and submittals.
• However, it still cannot replace a courtesy call or a time-sensitive
email to the commissioning authority to inform them about any early
equipment installation or air handler equipment start-ups.
5. Be Available & Connected
• The commissioning authority should expect enough emails and other
forms of communication from the other team members working on the
project, but it is their personal responsibility to have regular updates on
the project and interact directly with the project managers and team
members throughout the construction phase.
• This can easily be done by sending emails and making friendly calls,
being actively involved in construction-specific meetings, and visiting
the site to meet with the installation team members on whom they
depend for resolving deficiencies.
6. On-Site Conversation
• With the installation of duct-work, piping and other mechanical
equipment is complete, the commissioning authority requires more
time to spend on site.
• Site visits are a great way to connect and reconnect with the
installation team members, verify their installation-specific schedules
and gather their views on how the project is progressing.
• You can also consider having informal one-on-one meetings with the
project managers of mechanical and construction teams.
7. Contact Us
• Address: Global Commissioning Management and
Software Ltd, Unit 2, Chestfield Business Park
Whitstable | Kent, CT5 3JB
• https://www.facebook.com/GlobalCxMLtd
• https://twitter.com/_globalltd
• https://www.instagram.com/global_cxm/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-
commissioning-management-software-ltd