The construction of a structure has several steps. Few of which are discussed here. Engineer is not responsible for each of them, he should be involved in most of them so that a safe, durable, stable serviceable structure is the result. Project must be economical, pleasing, and does not have negative impact to the environment.

  1. An owner finds a location and arranging funds for the project. He also selects an architect or an engineer as project manager and he in turn chooses various consultants (structural engineer, geotechnical, survey etc.)
  2. A land surveyor prepares the contours.
  3. Project manager studies the bye-laws and draw a plan of the structure, which will meets the fire protection, health and safety requirements.
  4. The competent authority approves the design after checking with local bye-laws.
  5. The form, shape and size of the structure are decided by the architect with help of structural engineer, such that the structure is safe, economical and efficiently resists the load.
  6. Various materials required for the structure is selected by considering the required performance, cost, availability of labor, and cost of transportation.
  7. The structural engineer estimates the probable loads due to wind, earthquake etc that are acting on the structure.
  8. The structural engineer arrives at the structural system, after comparing various possible system, the structure should give ample warning before collapsing
  9. Considering the critical loading conditions the sizing of the different elements are determined.
  10. The structure should be fit for taking all loads and other influences experienced during construction
  11. The detailed structural drawings are prepared and approved by the engineer.
  12. The architect will prepare the architectural drawings.
  13. The estimates of quantities are taken the cost is calculated.
  14. Comparing the cost quoted by different tenders, contractor is choosen.
  15. The contractor based on the structural drawings prepares shop drawings.
  16. The contractor constructs the building  based on the specifications given by the architect or project manager
  17. During the construction, contractor consults the architect or project manager if any changes have to be made due to the site condition. The structural engineer must also convey to the fabricator specific methods if any for execution.
  18. The engineer with the help of quality controller inspects the work of the contractor to ensure that the structure is erecting according to his design and specifications.
  19. Similarly the project manager or architect also periodically inspects the site.
  20. Some constructions as built drawings are prepared and kept permanently.
  21. After the project is completed the owner will take over structure and appoint contractors for maintains the building.
While executing the project the coordination of electrical and mechanical engineers are needed. Thus a good building is the product of many experts and skilled and unskilled labors. All must be doing in good spirit. The 21 steps are steps towards a safe journey to construct a safe and healthy habitat. Still researches must be carried over for the best. The engineer has to use his engineering judgment in order to reduce cost and efficient solution of the problem