The GC’s Guide to Smarter Project Planning

In commercial construction, scopes are complex, timelines are tight, and product decisions can make or break your schedule.

From rainscreens and daylighting systems to louvers and architectural panels, selecting and integrating the right envelope products requires more than just checking boxes in the spec. It’s about knowing what to watch for—and when to act—so you can avoid the last-minute scrambles that slow everyone down.

Here’s a practical roadmap for General Contractors and installers to plan smarter, coordinate earlier, and keep projects moving through procurement and install.

Start With the End in Mind

The biggest delays on commercial jobs often stem from decisions that weren’t made early enough. Maybe the architect specified something obscure. Maybe a sub ghosted on shop drawings. Or maybe no one caught a long lead time until it was too late.

Avoiding these pitfalls starts with understanding the sequence of events from procurement and coordination—not just from a construction schedule.

What to Watch For (Early & Often)

You don’t have to over-engineer your planning process. But you do need to know the right questions to ask.

Key checkpoints to keep on your radar:

• Unfamiliar specs – Don’t wait to ask what a product is, how it installs, or whether it’s even available. Vet early.
  
  
• Unrealistic lead times – Manufacturers’ websites aren’t updated in real time. Always verify with a rep.
  
  
• Complex wall assemblies – More trades = more chances for conflict. Look for systems that simplify sequencing.
  
  
• Budget constraints – If VE is likely, get alternates in play while there’s still time to review.
  
  
• Shop drawing delays – If drawings are holding up scopes, ask if a rep can expedite.
  
  
• Missing install guidance – Crews need more than spec sheets. Secure installer-friendly resources or field support early.
  
  

The Smart GC’s Project Roadmap

Here’s the proven sequence for staying ahead of envelope-related scopes like rainscreens, louvers, daylighting systems, and other architectural components:

Preconstruction & Contract Award

• Clarify product intent with the design team or rep
  
  
• Request VE alternates and ballpark pricing
  
  
• Flag potential long-lead materials
  
  

Design & Shop Drawings

• Begin shop drawing coordination
  
  
• Request samples or mockups for approval
  
  
• Confirm compatibility based on site conditions
  
  

Procurement

• Finalize selections and issue POs
  
  
• Validate lead times with reps or manufacturers
  
  
• Schedule deliveries in line with staging availability
  
  

Pre-Install

• Provide install guides or training to crews
  
  
• Coordinate jobsite support if needed
  
  
• Confirm delivery logistics to avoid downtime
  
  

Construction & Closeout

• Install panels and components per approved drawings
  
  
• Coordinate field adjustments with reps and engineers
  
  
• Complete punch list, closeout documents, and turnover
  
  

Avoiding the “Scope Creep” Trap

Another common cause of headaches? Scope creep in the envelope phase.

What starts as “just a rainscreen” can suddenly involve sunshades, custom brackets, insulation, and flashings from multiple vendors. Before you know it, your clean install sequence turns into a jobsite jigsaw puzzle.

Engaging early with a product rep or building envelope expert can help you anticipate overlaps, recommend compatible systems, and reduce coordination issues before they hit the jobsite.

Bottom Line: Plan Early, Ask Questions, Lean on Your Partners

You don’t have to know every system detail—but you do need to know when to bring in the people who do.

Whether you’re managing public works or fast-track commercial builds, getting ahead of your product planning will help you avoid delays, reduce RFIs, and keep your team focused on building—not backtracking.

Need Help Navigating the Project Roadmap?

At ASI, we work directly with General Contractors to support planning, procurement, and install for building envelope systems—from daylighting to cladding and more.

• Budget pricing & VE options
  
  
• Shop drawings & install support
  
  
• Lead time planning & field coordination
  
  

For more details on how we partner with GC's or to schedule a call with ASI about your next project, click here.