Lesson 8: Procurement and Site Preparation

Date: September 25, 2025
Session Time: 8:00am-12:00pm EST
Duration: 4 hours (including 15-minute exercise)

Key Learning Objective

Managing procurement processes and preparing construction sites through systematic planning and safety-focused preparation techniques.

Lesson Overview

This session covers the essential skills needed to order materials, prepare work sites, and ensure all safety and logistical requirements are met before construction begins.

Main Activities (3 hours 45 minutes)

  • Procurement best practices and vendor selection
  • Material ordering and delivery coordination
  • Site preparation and safety protocols
  • Tool and equipment inventory management
  • Construction permit and inspection requirements

15-Minute Exercise: Procurement Simulation

Exercise Description

Simulate the procurement process for a small deck component by creating a purchase order and site preparation checklist, practicing real-world project management skills.

Materials Needed

  • Computer with internet access
  • Spreadsheet software or paper
  • Previous materials research and budget
  • Safety checklist template
  • Timer

Exercise Steps (15 minutes)

  1. Purchase Order Creation (6 minutes)
  2. Select one material from your research (e.g., decking boards)
  3. Find a local supplier online

  4. Create a simple purchase order with:

    • Material description and quantity
    • Unit price and total cost
    • Delivery requirements
    • Payment terms

  5. Site Preparation Checklist (5 minutes)

  6. Create a safety checklist for the work area
  7. List required tools and equipment
  8. Note any permits or inspections needed

  9. Identify potential hazards and mitigation steps

  10. Delivery Coordination (2 minutes)

  11. Plan delivery timing and location
  12. Note any special handling requirements
  13. Identify who will receive and inspect materials

  14. Plan storage location for delivered materials

  15. Quality Control Plan (2 minutes)

  16. List 3 things to check when materials arrive
  17. Note what to do if materials are damaged
  18. Plan how to verify quantities and specifications
  19. Identify who to contact for issues

Deliverable

  • Completed purchase order for one material
  • Site preparation and safety checklist
  • Delivery coordination plan
  • Quality control inspection checklist

Success Criteria

  • Purchase order includes all necessary details
  • Safety checklist is comprehensive and practical
  • Delivery plan considers logistics and timing
  • Quality control plan is thorough and actionable

Integration with Overall Project

This exercise develops the procurement and site preparation skills essential for successful construction and establishes the framework for managing the full project's material and safety requirements.

Previous Session: Lesson 7: Design Finalization