Villas Boas' remarks come in the wake of a major challenge this year for businesses, which are heavily impacted by rising costs in the industry. Construction projects are becoming more expensive, and Villas Boas says it's more crucial than ever to understand how to respond to this challenge.
Renowned civil engineer Alexander Villas Boas announces a new industry framework for cost control in the construction business. In this new blueprint he announced this week, it highlights six key rules that can help businesses save money and maintain project profitability.
Villas Boas' moves to introduce a new framework comes as construction companies – big and small – were reported to be feeling the pain of not being able to cut total costs and save money in construction.
In his 30 years in the field, the leading civil engineer recognizes that cost control is not just about tracking expenses. In a press interview with members of the press, he says it is a comprehensive management tool. Villas Boas emphasizes the importance of optimizing resources throughout all stages of a project.
Effective cost control
"In construction, cost control stands out as a fundamental tool for project success and company profitability. It's about more than just keeping track of what's being spent; it's about managing all aspects of a project from start to finish," he said.
Effective cost control, according to the US-based engineer, includes everything from material procurement and equipment rental to labor costs, and it can help companies find savings opportunities that significantly impact the bottom line.
High-quality projects for increased profits
While rising costs in the construction industry are definitely a challenge for many contractors, Villas Boas, also a known business leader, says using the perfect tools means that construction firms don't have to miss out on their bottom line.
He highlights that proper cost management allows companies to deliver high-quality projects within budget, leading to increased profit margins and a competitive edge in the market.
"When you keep costs under control, you naturally build a stronger, more trustworthy reputation with customers and partners. This reputation is crucial for securing future contracts and maintaining a strong market position," he explained.
The top civil engineer outlines six key rules for controlling costs: first, review the company's financial standing; second, establish realistic cost reduction targets; third, list all expenses related to the project; fourth, evaluate and refine processes for greater efficiency; fifth, plan material purchases carefully, buying only what's needed; and finally, set firm spending limits to keep the project on budget.
According to him, these steps are designed to be practical and actionable, providing companies with the tools they need to manage their projects effectively.
He also noted that people often think effective cost control means cutting corners, but it's about making smarter decisions. He explained that, for instance, using high-quality materials and adhering to proper standards can actually save money in the long run by "reducing the need for repairs and ensuring the longevity of the project.”
Strategic planning is key
In the interview, Alexander Villas Boas also stressed the importance of detailed cost planning and using data to anticipate expenses accurately. This enables companies to make strategic decisions that minimize risks and uncertainties.
"A clear plan with defined goals allows for better financial management and provides a roadmap to success," he noted.
In addition to strategic planning, he advocates for continuous monitoring and the adoption of digital tools to keep track of project expenses.
"Technology plays a huge role in efficient cost control. Whether it's specialized software or just a well-organized spreadsheet, having the right tools can make a big difference in maintaining accurate budget estimates and keeping costs in check,” he added.
Being cost-conscious
Alexander Villas Boas encourages construction companies to embrace a mindset of cost-consciousness, promoting clear communication among team members, suppliers, and clients to ensure everyone is aligned with the project's financial goals.
"When everyone understands the budget constraints and works together, it's easier to manage costs and avoid overruns," he added.
By implementing these rules, Villas Boas believes construction companies can not only save money but also improve project quality and customer satisfaction.
"It's about delivering on promises—on time, within budget, and up to the expected standards," he said. "When that happens, it naturally leads to repeat business and a strong market position."
About Alexander Villas Boas
Alexander Villas Boas is a civil engineer with extensive expertise in both the technical and financial aspects of construction management.
Villas Boas holds a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, a postgraduate degree in Occupational Safety Engineering, and MBAs in Business Financial Management and Business Specialization for Executives.
Contact Details:
Business: Alexander Villas Boas
Contact Name: Alexander Villas Boas
Contact Email: villasboas.alex@gmail.com
Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avboas/
Country: United States