Setting Projects Up for Success
The power of Early Contractor Involvement at Mainbrace
It’s no secret that we love ECI at Mainbrace, it’s the key to delivering the best project outcomes. We sat down with our QLD ECI Manager, Dave Hayter, to get his insights on why it makes such a difference:
- What are the biggest benefits of engaging Mainbrace early through ECI?
Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) sets projects up for success by providing accurate cost planning, securing the right design team, and streamlining approvals. It prevents scope creep, identifies risks early, and ensures practical, cost-effective solutions. By engaging key trades and managing long lead-time items upfront, ECI de-risks procurement and ensures a smoother transition to construction. Strong relationships built during this phase lead to more efficient project delivery.
- Can you share an example where ECI made a significant impact?
The Yamanto Central and Pallara Shopping Village projects highlight the value of ECI. At Yamanto, we optimised site levels, reworked structural elements, and simplified services to cut costs and improve efficiency, delivering the retail construction project four weeks early despite COVID challenges. At Pallara, we redesigned infrastructure to remove costly fire services, maximised lettable area, and secured approvals early which enabled completion ahead of schedule (& just in time to avoid major weather disruptions).
- How do you collaborate with clients, consultants, and subcontractors for the best outcomes?
Collaboration starts with open communication and accountability. I drive design development proactively, leveraging subcontractor expertise for practical solutions while maintaining a positive and fast-paced working environment. Respect, transparency, and structured processes ensure efficiency, while strong relationships foster long-term success.
- How does ECI help balance cost, time, and quality?
ECI enables accurate budgeting from the outset, integrating value engineering and cost-saving initiatives while maintaining quality. Regular cost updates ensure financial control, and structured design development prevents inefficiencies. By identifying and resolving potential issues early, we create a seamless transition from pre-construction to delivery, minimising risk and ensuring high-quality outcomes.
- What sets Mainbrace apart in the ECI space?
Mainbrace stands out for our open, transparent approach, deep industry expertise, and strong track record in retail. Our extensive cost database and refined ECI process provide clients with unmatched benchmarking and planning capabilities. With a high rate of repeat business and growing ECI-driven revenue, we’ve proven our ability to deliver. Clients trust us to de-risk their projects, optimise design, and drive seamless delivery.