What planning approach helps mitigate delays from design changes, late client decisions, and supply shortages?

• A. Delaying procurement until construction begins
• B. Relying on client decisions to drive procurement
• C. Extending the project schedule without changes
• D. Robust planning with risk allowances and early procurement

Answer: (D)

Mitigating delays from design changes, late client decisions, and supply shortages comes down to building resilience into the plan by allowing for uncertainty and securing key items early. By including risk allowances in the schedule, you create buffers that absorb design iterations and late decisions without pushing the whole project off track. Early procurement targets long-lead items and components likely to be scarce, locking in delivery slots and prices so shortages don’t derail progress as designs evolve or decisions are deferred. This combination keeps downstream work flowing, reduces rework risk, and helps maintain the overall timeline.

Delaying procurement until construction begins increases exposure to market swings and late design changes, making it harder to secure items on time. Relying on client decisions to drive procurement can stall progress if those decisions come late. Extending the project schedule without changes simply papers over delays instead of reducing their likelihood. The robust planning with risk allowances and early procurement directly addresses uncertainty and supply issues to keep the project moving.