Project document file structure
Project document file structure
(OP)
Our internal audit folks just told us our project files were a mess.
I'm in the government in a department that does a lot of heavy civil construction. Some of the design is in-house, some by another government department, and most by consultants. Construction supervision is either in-house or by consultants. There's a lot of email and electronic stuff, but a surprising amount of paper as well (particularly once construction is underway).
I'm supposed to come up with a proposal for standardizing our filing system---what to keep, who keeps it, for how long, etc.
Google has only been marginally helpful: too vague on "Information Management" in general. The departmental records people are working at a level way above this problem: this would be a sub-sub-sub category of the stuff they work on.
So, does any one know of any "standards" specifically for construction project documentation---from project initiation through to final completion?
I'm in the government in a department that does a lot of heavy civil construction. Some of the design is in-house, some by another government department, and most by consultants. Construction supervision is either in-house or by consultants. There's a lot of email and electronic stuff, but a surprising amount of paper as well (particularly once construction is underway).
I'm supposed to come up with a proposal for standardizing our filing system---what to keep, who keeps it, for how long, etc.
Google has only been marginally helpful: too vague on "Information Management" in general. The departmental records people are working at a level way above this problem: this would be a sub-sub-sub category of the stuff they work on.
So, does any one know of any "standards" specifically for construction project documentation---from project initiation through to final completion?
We would all be better off if we tried to be better, instead of trying to be better-off. --Aristide Pierre (Peter) Maurin
RE: Project document file structure
However I'd have thunk that it is such a common requirement that your contacts in other jurisdictions would already have what you need.
Your google search might work better if you were to search for document retention policies or processes.
The trick is actually getting people to throw stuff away.
Cheers
Greg Locock
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RE: Project document file structure
Dan - Owner

http://www.Hi-TecDesigns.com
RE: Project document file structure
I have a background in biopharm manufacturing and ASME code fab, and although my desk may not look like it on a Friday afternoon, I take document control very seriously. You need a system that can process every form of communication, report, completed form, revised drawing, etc. And you have to follow it. It's definitely not fire and forget. It's something else that requires management. But it's definitely a lifesaver for me. I have a small practice with a lot of little gigs going on each week, and it generates a lot of paper and a lot of reports. Couldn't do it without some form of document control.
RE: Project document file structure
Here in Indiana, we seem to keep everything in hard copy (or now electronic copies) for at least 7 years (if not 10) and everything older is placed on Microfiche.
RE: Project document file structure
Also, if the budget allows it, you might consider hiring a consultant. You can e-mail me (jwilsonatx@gmail.com) for a recommendation if you would like.
RE: Project document file structure
iso has real pile of documents, and if it not mandated i would avoid it myself.
RE: Project document file structure
Nonetheless, you can do a search for "project documentation structure" and get the following hits:
http:
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