When should the GC typically conduct two initial meetings?

The general contractor (GC) should typically conduct two initial meetings at the initial stage of construction to lay the groundwork for effective project execution. These meetings serve critical purposes. The first meeting often focuses on kick-starting the project by reviewing project goals, timelines, roles, and responsibilities among team members. It is essential for establishing communication protocols and clarifying expectations between the stakeholders involved.

The second meeting, which may occur shortly after the first, tends to address more specific project details, such as safety protocols, site logistics, and coordination with subcontractors. Conducting these meetings at the onset of construction ensures that everyone is aligned from the very beginning, which can lead to smoother operations and less disruption in future phases.

In contrast, conducting these meetings at the end of the project would be impractical, as there would be little value in gathering everyone together when the work is nearly finished. During the construction planning phase, initial meetings are typically around formulating strategy rather than executing tasks. Likewise, holding them during the procurement phase may not be as effective for addressing the operational aspects needed to initiate construction successfully. Therefore, the best setting for these meetings is indeed at the initial stage of construction, where they can establish a strong foundation for the project.