Structural engineers are issuing steel mill order drawings earlier than in the past, due in part to accelerated project schedules and long lead times for structural steel procurement. Developers and architects understand that early procurement can reduce the overall construction schedule up to several months, allowing earlier occupancy and other benefits.

But this strategy also entails risks that must be managed. Design changes that occur after steel procurement can require modifications to steel members that are already in fabrication or perhaps require procurement of additional steel members, which gives rise to claims.

Architects, owners, and other design consultants can play a crucial role in providing key information and making final decisions that heavily impact the structural steel design. The benefits of producing early steel mill orders can outweigh the risks if the project team communicates well and has a clear understanding of this delivery process and effective timing.

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