Learn how to communicate, negotiate, and collaborate with material suppliers and contractors in your commercial design projects. Find out how to choose, manage, and appreciate these key partners.

Cheap is never quality and quality is never cheap. Understanding current market conditions in raw material producers can make or break a project. Be sure that your supplier has adequate reserves and supply on hand.

In my experience and opinion communication is the most important aspect of a project. When everything is going well its easy, but what really matters are when there are challenges and clear communication is required to pull things together quickly. It is important to take time on instructions and providing as much clarity on what is required, even if that communication takes time, this compared to bad instructions and dealing with problems as a direct result bad communication is will save an enormous amount of time, money and resources. Planned communication protocols at the start of the project is key.

How do you work effectively with material suppliers and contractors?

As a commercial designer, you know that the quality and availability of your materials can make or break your project. Whether you are designing a retail store, an office space, or a hospitality venue, you need to work effectively with material suppliers and contractors to ensure that your vision is realized on time and on budget. In this article, we will share some tips on how to communicate, negotiate, and collaborate with these key partners in your commercial design process.

1 Understand your needs

Before you start looking for material suppliers and contractors, you need to have a clear idea of what you need for your project. This includes the scope, budget, timeline, specifications, and standards of your design. You should also consider the environmental and social impact of your material choices, and how they align with your client's values and goals. Having a detailed and realistic brief will help you narrow down your options and avoid unnecessary delays or changes later on.

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Troy Smith

CEMEX Cement Sales Manager-South Texas
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Cheap is never quality and quality is never cheap. Understanding current market conditions in raw material producers can make or break a project. Be sure that your supplier has adequate reserves and supply on hand.

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Ruxandra E.

Contract Administrator
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Consider doing business with suppliers you have previously dealt with - if possible. Conduct as many meetings are necessary to achieve effectiveness. Have a mitigation plan in place. If your suppliers are not successfull, your business is not successfull either.

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2 Research your options

Once you have defined your needs, you can start researching potential material suppliers and contractors that can meet them. You can use online platforms, directories, referrals, or trade shows to find reputable and reliable sources. You should also check their reviews, portfolios, and credentials to see if they have relevant experience and expertise in your industry and project type. You should also compare their prices, availability, quality, and delivery terms to see if they fit your budget and schedule.

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3 Communicate clearly

After you have selected your material suppliers and contractors, you need to communicate clearly with them throughout your project. You should establish a regular and consistent communication channel, such as email, phone, or video call, and update them on any changes or issues that may arise. You should also provide them with clear and detailed instructions, feedback, and approvals to avoid misunderstandings or mistakes. You should also be respectful, polite, and professional in your interactions, and acknowledge their efforts and contributions.

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Armand Botes

Director at Skyfall Development Properties
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In my experience and opinion communication is the most important aspect of a project. When everything is going well its easy, but what really matters are when there are challenges and clear communication is required to pull things together quickly. It is important to take time on instructions and providing as much clarity on what is required, even if that communication takes time, this compared to bad instructions and dealing with problems as a direct result bad communication is will save an enormous amount of time, money and resources. Planned communication protocols at the start of the project is key.

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Troy Smith

CEMEX Cement Sales Manager-South Texas
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A clear and up front construction schedule is of utmost importance. Suppliers can only plan for what they are told the schedule will be. Both supplier and client need to be realistic in what can be supplied when schedules begin to speed up or slow down.

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4 Negotiate fairly

Working effectively with material suppliers and contractors also involves negotiating fairly with them. You should be transparent and honest about your expectations and limitations, and respect their terms and conditions. You should also be flexible and willing to compromise when necessary, and find solutions that benefit both parties. You should also avoid making unrealistic or unreasonable demands, or taking advantage of their goodwill or loyalty. You should also document and confirm your agreements in writing, and keep track of your payments and invoices.

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5 Collaborate creatively

Finally, working effectively with material suppliers and contractors means collaborating creatively with them. You should treat them as partners, not vendors, and value their input and suggestions. You should also leverage their skills and knowledge, and learn from their experience and insights. You should also encourage them to share their challenges and opportunities, and support them in overcoming them. You should also celebrate their achievements and successes, and thank them for their cooperation and collaboration.

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Armand Botes

Director at Skyfall Development Properties
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Although this is true it cannot be done with every supplier and contractor you work with. It happens over time and it takes time to built such relationships. On the flip side some suppliers and contractors have the professionalism, reliability, quality, price and after sales service you are willing to colaborate with, and look no further for other options.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How do you work effectively with material suppliers and contractors?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Understand your needs

2 Research your options

3 Communicate clearly

4 Negotiate fairly

5 Collaborate creatively

6 Here’s what else to consider

Commercial Design

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How do you work effectively with material suppliers and contractors?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Understand your needs

2 Research your options

3 Communicate clearly

4 Negotiate fairly

5 Collaborate creatively

6 Here’s what else to consider

Commercial Design

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