{"id":3680,"date":"2018-03-13T09:22:23","date_gmt":"2018-03-13T13:22:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/?p=3680"},"modified":"2026-01-16T06:21:58","modified_gmt":"2026-01-16T11:21:58","slug":"four-strategies-for-effective-change-order-management","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ca\/blog\/four-strategies-for-effective-change-order-management\/","title":{"rendered":"Four strategies for effective change order management"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBusiness planning<\/a>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFour strategies for effective change order management\t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\"\"\t\t\t\tRob Arkes<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n

The most profitable contractors have a proven process for effective change order management. By following four key change order strategies, you will, too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Set proper expectations with clients.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

During the preconstruction phase make sure that customers understand the purpose of change orders. If you have change order processing fees explain them. Show clients a sample of your work order form and walk them through the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Confirm project scope<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When creating contracts make sure that descriptions of work are as detailed as possible. List any services that are excluded.<\/mark> If possible, have a licensed attorney specializing in construction review contracts prior to execution. Finally, establish a formal process for discussing contract terms with project managers and superintendents so that they understand what is covered, and what is out of scope.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Don\u2019t procrastinate.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Often, contractors make the mistake of waiting until the end of a project to bill for changes. This can catch clients off guard, and lead to disputes that cause contractors to write off charges to \u201ckeep the peace.\u201d Billing in a timely manner for out of scope work will help ensure that there are no surprises for clients, and that you collect for all work done.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Implement technology to automate the process.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Software designed specifically for construction can greatly simplify the change order management process. Look for software that includes this key functionality:<\/p>\n\n\n\n