Backlog

Backlog and the associated pipeline of work is the second group of key performance indicators for a contractor. With construction, understanding the volume of existing contracts, i.e. backlog, aids the management team in setting production goals in the near term. In conjunction with pipeline information, a contractor can quickly ascertain future financial performance. In order to do this, the contractor must create a set of key performance indicators that identify existing dollar value of signed contracts not yet started along with their respective time constraints. Furthermore, the pipeline of potential work is stratified in groups and historical performance guides the management team with what to expect for future work beyond the near term.

This is the second part of a three part series explaining the various key performance indicators used by contractors. Backlog of work refers to existing signed contracts, their corresponding dollar value and timeline for completion. Whereas the pipeline KPI is broader in scope. The pipeline of work refers to funnel effect whereby the final outcome is a signed contract. At the very top of the funnel, the widest point, sits all potential contracts that are considered leads. As the report steps into the funnel, not all leads turn into requests for estimates. The goal is have estimates turn into negotiations tied to the dollar value and time frame. The final part of this pipeline is of course final negotiations related to terms and conditions within the contract; e.g. there is a letter of intention by the customer to sign a contract given some reasonable terms and conditions.