From Concept to Closeout As every project is unique, so are each client’s needs. We tailor our services to address such needs accordingly, whether it is management of a multi-project program, a standalone project, a specific task in the project life-cycle (e.g. managing solicitations), or augmenting a client’s staff to address a short-term workload increase.
Construction and Project Management We are of the opinion that hiring a project manager (like Meridian) as the first step in a capital project is a best management practice. When this is done, we can discuss scope, schedule and budget constraints from the very beginning and make recommendations on the best project delivery method. Often, the selection of the project delivery method is one of the largest determinants of project success. Project delivery methods include design-bid-build, DBOM, design-build, P3, multi-prime, IPD and construction manager at risk (CMAR/CM@Risk/CM-GC).
Our Methodology
Within the context of the delivery strategy, Meridian will work with the owner to procure the project team through solicitations and/or negotiations, and develop contracts that establish specific project deliverables and requirements. We will work with the owner to develop project budgets and contingency and mitigation strategies to address risk.
During the critical planning phases, in addition to identification of the delivery method, Meridian will work with the owner to develop additional plans such as communication and reporting, procurement of long-lead and potentially owner-furnished materials, bonding/insurance requirements, cost accounting processes, FF&E (furniture, fixtures and equipment), commissioning, any specialty owner-furnished services (e.g. artists), change control, stakeholder management (including operations and maintenance) and closeout planning.
Meridian frequently develops and maintains master project schedules. Depending on the owner’s standard, we use either Primavera (P6 compatible) or Microsoft Office software. During construction we track the contractor’s schedule against their baseline, and on larger projects, administer a scheduling specification that has additional requirements.
During construction, Meridian project managers apply a hands-on approach by working closely with the project team to resolve issues at the lowest possible level. We prefer frequent, if not full-time, on-site project management depending on the scale and complexity of the project. We understand there is a balance between budget and value when it comes to on-site project management, and we also understand the potential negative impacts of infrequent on-site inspections.
Closeout and commissioning are often under-planned tasks. Commissioning needs to be planned in the beginning of a project to establish pre-functional and functional testing requirements and establish the level of effort by each project team member prior to the solicitation of their services. Closeout documentation needs to be scrutinized for completeness including as-builts, O&M manuals, warranty documentation, etc.
Program Management Meridian can manage multiple, concurrent projects in a comprehensive approach. When such program management is properly applied, projects can be coordinated to obtain benefits not available from managing each one individually. This requires thoughtful planning and investigation to maximize the benefits of shared resources and to realize time and cost savings. Equally important is scheduling the projects appropriately to minimize disruption to the owner’s operations.
Technology Meridian is committed to using the most current industry applications available based on the client’s and project’s needs. Various web-based applications are utilized to create efficiencies and improve communication.
Project Management
Industry leaders since 1998.
Construction Management
A hands-on approach to management.
Owner's Representative
Working in the interests of the owner.
Program Management
Focused and efficient from start to finish.
Project Controls
Always striving to stay on time and under budget.
Contract Administration
Decades of expertise in contracts, both private and public.
Our Capabilities
Project Management
Managing projects in Alaska is no easy task and is inherently risky for owners. Overseeing the hiring of designers and contractors, schedules, and budgets can be overwhelming. Meridian works closely with our clients to address each client’s needs whether it is multiple concurrent projects, a standalone project, a specific task in the project life-cycle or augmenting existing staff to address a workload increase. As the complexities of projects in Alaska grow, new and difficult hurdles needing to be addressed pop up regularly. Meridian is here to help our clients adapt and overcome these obstacles and deliver a successful project on-time and on-budget.
Construction Management
Alaska is home to some of the most challenging weather and geography in North America. This coupled with our unique logistical challenges make construction projects difficult, to say the least, and require experienced and thorough planning with skilled oversite of execution. This is where Meridian shines. As the risks of construction in our state grow and change Meridian is here with the experience needed to mitigate the risks and help our clients realize their goals.
Owner's Representative
Undertaking any project requires some level of resource dedication. When project owners find themselves short on internal resources or the required expertise to shepherd a project to completion they turn to Meridian. We act as an extension of your team and execute your vision with your organization’s values held as our own. As an owner representative, we provide you with our expertise in planning, scheduling, procuring design teams and contractors, construction management, funding/grant compliance, closeout and commission oversight.
Project Controls
Tracking budgets, schedules, and resources is key on any project. They allow for project managers, owners, and stakeholders to gain a more accurate understanding of where a project is at in real-time, and make better decisions regarding scope, schedule and budget. Meridian understands the importance of accurate data provided by project controls and works diligently with our clients to ensure scope, schedule, and budget are managed in an efficient and timely manner so that decisions are based on the most accurate data possible.
Program Management
Organizing multiple, concurrent projects and deliverables into one program can be hard. Proper control, oversite, and management of them can be difficult to find. That’s where Meridian comes in. Our clients’ ever-evolving programs deserve the best management possible and we deliver. Working side by side with our clients’ teams, we bring years of planning, development, and strategy to any program needs our clients have with comprehensive program management.
Contract Administration
Starting off with good contracts is more important in today’s world than ever before. Conflicting design documents, contractor disputes, and project delays can be hard to detect and harder to resolve. Meridian brings our vast experience in avoiding and resolving these issues to help our clients to rest easy knowing they have years of high-level, tested expertise in their corner. With Meridian’s thorough document controls and contract management skills, our clients’ risks are mitigated, investments protected and projects delivered. Our contract administrators bring the professional level of service and attention to detail that today’s business environment demands.
SECTORS WE SERVE
