Imagine this: Your structural steel detailing company is looking to outsource structural steel detailing services to an outsourcing service provider. You browse online job boards and decide to work with a reasonably priced detailer, possibly a freelancer. The prices are affordable, the workflow matches your schedule, and the promised turnaround time is quick. Everything seems great! You bring them on board.
A Costly Lesson You’d Not Want to Learn
You do all this and more – only to make a dreadful discovery that the work they’ve delivered is subpar and does not meet your country’s standards.
It turns out that the freelance detailer you hired was using unlicensed copies of steel detailing software. He was neither properly trained nor familiar with your country’s standards, despite their claims. The consequences? Your project is behind schedule and incurring daily financial losses. And you are looking for another company to redo the detailing work.
This can happen to anyone, even to companies that adhere to the law and hold proper licenses. Companies of all sizes are often tempted to hire subcontractors due to the lower upfront costs. However, trying to save money by hiring structural steel detailers from unreliable websites or job boards can end up costing a significant amount of cash, time, materials, and a damaged reputation. It is an expensive lesson no company would ever want to learn!
How to Choose the Right Structural Steel Detailer for Your Project
Before you hire a structural steel detailer for your job, it is important to conduct a few quick checks. They can help protect your company from experiencing the nightmare scenario described above. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Evaluate the Complexity of Your Projects
Not all structures are constructed alike. While some projects have straightforward designs, others require intricate detailing. Therefore, before engaging with a third-party provider, it is important to assess the complexity of your project. It will help you determine the level of expertise needed.
2. Always Partner with Reputed Service Providers
When partnering with third-party service providers, it’s crucial to collaborate with detailers who have a solid reputation in the industry. Reputable service providers have the necessary skills, experience, and resources to handle your project efficiently. So, look for detailers who work with full-time steel detailers, have positive client reviews, required industry certifications, and a proven track record of successful project completion – within the promised deadlines.
3. Verify Software Legitimacy
Whether you want to work on Tekla Structures, SDS2, Advance Steel, or any other steel detailing software, make sure your detailer uses the official versions of the software and keeps them up to date. Illegally obtained or outdated software can lead to errors, project delays, and potential legal issues. Ask for proof of software licenses to ensure compliance.
4. Evaluate Past Work and References
Examine previous projects that the detailer has worked on. Cross-verify references and contact past clients to get feedback on their experience and quality of work.
5. Assess Knowledge of Local Standards
When it comes to structural steel drawings, different countries follow different building codes and standards. Make sure your overseas partner is well-versed with the local codes followed in your country. It will help you meet all regulatory requirements and avoid costly revisions.
6. Evaluate Communication Skills
Effective communication is essential for the successful completion of the project, especially when the teams are placed in different countries and probably work across different time zones. Work with a company that can assign you a dedicated project manager who conveys complex details and collaborates efficiently with your team regularly. Good communication minimizes misunderstandings and ensures smooth project progression.
7. Understand Their Workflow and Timeline
Get a clear understanding of your potential partner’s workflow and delivery timelines. On-time delivery is extremely essential for the project’s ultimate success. So, ask for a detailed breakdown of their process, right from initial planning to creating structural steel fabrication drawings to final delivery. Make sure their timeline aligns with your project’s schedule. Also, check their capabilities and capacity to handle additional work or unexpected delays or changes.
8. Compare Pricing and Value
While cost is an important factor, it shouldn’t be the sole determinant. Seek quotations from different vendors and compare their prices against the value offered. Choosing to partner with a structural steel detailer who provides maximum value for money – a strong team, backup resources, legit software, and a good infrastructure are a few things that must be closely evaluated before striking a deal.
Sometimes, paying a bit more for a reputable, experienced detailer is better as it can save you money in the long run by avoiding errors and rework.
9. Ask for a Trial
Before fully committing to a structural steel detailer, request a trial project or a sample of their previous work. This allows you to assess the quality of their structural steel detailing services. Through a trial run, you can gain valuable insights into their skills and expertise, which can help you make a more informed decision.
10. Conduct Interviews
Creating steel shop drawings is an intricate affair; it demands comprehensive knowledge and expertise. So, before partnering with a structural steel detailing company, interview their top candidates. Gauge their knowledge, expertise, and professionalism. Explain your expectations and requirements and check if they can be delivered to your schedule.
Here are some points that you need to keep in mind when outsourcing structural steel detailing services to a third-party service provider. If you are looking for the best structural steel detailing company with international project expertise, consider partnering with Enginerio. With a professional and proficient team of in-house (not freelancers!) Advance Steel, SDS2, and Tekla structural steel drafting engineers, we provide the best services at the most competitive prices. Our flexible engagement models, combined with a commitment to quality and timely delivery, make us a trusted partner for your structural steel detailing needs. Whether you have a simple or complex project, Enginerio has the expertise and resources to ensure your project is completed to the highest standards.
Contact us today to discuss your project requirements and take your project to towering heights.
