The 73% Problem: Why Classic Large Projects Fail
The numbers tell a clear story: Public large projects cost on average 73% more than planned. About two-thirds of all projects do not adhere to time and budget constraints, as confirmed by a survey among project consultants. The problem is often an outdated approach that can no longer keep pace with the complexity of modern construction sites. A crucial mistake is the silo mentality between departments and trades.
When information does not flow, misunderstandings arise, leading to costly rework. Another point is the lack of a culture of error; instead of seeing problems as opportunities for improvement, they are often ignored for too long. Rigid annual plans simply do not work under unpredictable weather conditions or supply shortages anymore. The traditional waterfall method, where one phase is completed after another, is too inflexible. This rigid structure is one of the main reasons for the failure of ambitious construction projects.A more adaptable approach is needed to regain control.
Agility as a Solution: Success in Short Cycles
Agile project management breaks down rigid, linear plans and replaces them with iterative, meaning repetitive, work cycles. Instead of a single, large plan, there are many small, manageable work packages, called sprints, that typically last two to four weeks. At the end of each sprint, there is a concrete, verifiable deliverable. This approach can increase project completion speed by up to 20%.
You can think of it like playing golf: Instead of trying to hit a distant hole with a single stroke, you plan each stroke anew based on the current position of the ball. This flexibility allows for a quick response to changes without jeopardizing the entire project. Methods like Scrum or Kanban help organize work transparently and make progress visible to everyone. Close and continuous alignment within the team and with the client is the core of success, as better control of construction projects demonstrates. In this way, agile large projects are gradually and controlledly steered towards their goals.
Communication as a Driver: Agile Collaboration in Practice
Agile methods require excellent and above all fast communication. Daily stand-up meetings are central to identifying obstacles early. But what happens when the team is on the construction site and the project management is in the office? This is where many fail in practical implementation. Unstructured WhatsApp groups without legally secure documentation are not a solution.
A digital platform developed specifically for the construction site fills this gap. It works as simply as a messenger but provides the needed structure and legal security. Valoon enables exactly that by integrating communication directly into workflows. Here are the advantages for agile large projects:
- Legally secure photo documentation: Every photo is automatically saved with a time and location stamp in the digital construction diary.
- Live translation: Language barriers are overcome with a translation function in over 20 languages directly in the chat.
- Automated reports: Information from the construction site is automatically assigned and turned into structured reports, reducing manual effort by hours.
- Easiest operation: Since the solution is based on WhatsApp, no training effort is required for the employees on the construction site.
This direct and traceable communication is the fuel for every agile process. It enables real process optimization in construction to be possible. This effectively closes the gap between the construction site and the office.
Combining Lean and Agile for Maximum Efficiency
Agile methods combine excellently with the principles of Lean Construction. While agility focuses on flexible processes, lean management aims to eliminate all waste. In practice, this means that agile large projects become not only more adaptable but also more resource-efficient. Waste on the construction site comes in many forms: waiting employees, material lying around, or unnecessary trips.
The close timing of agile sprints and transparent planning make such problems immediately visible. This combination reduces rework and optimizes material flow, which saves costs directly. A central goal is to create a continuous workflow where trades do not block each other. The application of Lean management methods ensures stable and repeatable processes, while the agile approach provides the necessary flexibility for unforeseen events. This synergy not only makes construction projects cheaper but also faster and of higher quality.
5 Steps to an Agile Construction Site
Transitioning to agile methods does not have to be a leap into the cold water. A step-by-step approach secures acceptance within the team and leads to measurable successes. A practical guide for large projects helps with implementation. Here’s how to succeed:
- Secure support: Management must fully embrace the change and provide the necessary resources. Without this support, agile large projects are hardly feasible.
- Start with a pilot project: Choose a manageable project to gain initial experience. The team can learn the new methods in a protected environment.
- Train the team and define roles: Clarify the new responsibilities, for instance, that of the Product Owner (often the client or their representative) and the Scrum Master (who steers the process).
- Use simple digital tools: Opt for software that is accepted by all. A solution with zero training effort like Valoon is ideal here to avoid resistance.
- Establish a feedback culture: Introduce regular retrospectives where the team openly discusses what went well and what can be improved. This is the only way to continuously optimize the process.
This structured approach minimizes the risks of the transition and lays the foundation for permanently more successful projects.
Conclusion: Your Advantage with Valoon
Agile large projects are not a theoretical concept but a practical answer to the greatest challenges in the construction industry: cost explosions, project delays, and communication chaos. By switching from rigid plans to flexible, iterative processes, you regain control over complex undertakings. You not only reduce the error rate but also increase efficiency and satisfaction for all parties involved. The key to success lies in the combination of agile methodology and a simple yet powerful digital communication. Valoon was specifically designed to close the gap between the office and the construction site and enable agile collaboration without hurdles. Ensure transparency, save valuable time on documentation, and make sure information reaches its destination where it is needed – instantly and legally secure. Take the first step towards more successful large projects.
Book your free demo now and discover how Valoon revolutionizes your construction documentation and communication.
More Links
Die Koblenz University of Applied Sciences provides the final report of their study “Status Quo Agile” from 2016 with key insights on the use of agile methods.
Die RWTH Aachen offers a publication on the empirical study of the application and effectiveness of agile methods in software development.
Das Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) discusses in an article the application of agile methods within a statistical authority.
Die University of Zurich (UZH) provides a document on agile working methods, specifically applied in the real estate industry.
FAQ
Are agile methods suitable for every construction project?
Agile methods unfold their full potential especially in complex large projects with many uncertainties and interfaces. For very small, standardized projects with clear, unchangeable requirements, a classic approach may also be sufficient. However, often a hybrid model that combines elements from both worlds is the most effective solution.
What software do you need for agile large projects?
What matters is not a specific software but a tool that supports agile principles: transparency, quick communication, and ease of use. A platform like Valoon, based on WhatsApp, lowers the acceptance barrier on the construction site while ensuring legally secure, structured documentation in the office.
How high is the training effort for the transition to agility?
The training effort depends on the chosen tools and the prior knowledge of the team. For the methodology (e.g., Scrum), a basic introduction for the core team is advisable. For the software, the effort should be minimal. Solutions that link to well-known apps like WhatsApp require practically no training for the employees on the construction site.
Is agile working compatible with HOAI and VOB?
Yes, agile methods can be applied within the existing regulations such as HOAI and VOB. However, it often requires a more cooperative contract design that promotes flexibility and cooperative collaboration. New contract models like alliance contracts or multi-party contracts ideally support agile working methods.
