INSIGHTS FROM COLLIERS PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Written by: Jake Lord & Trey Hafer

Colliers’ Project Management team delivers value through cost savings, time savings, proactive risk mitigation and sustainability strategies that drive long-term profitability. Drawing on deep expertise across design, development and construction disciplines, the team provides comprehensive oversight at every stage of a project’s lifecycle.

The team integrates seamlessly with clients, “whether it is a one-time requirement or full management of the project.” Supported by in-depth market trend analysis, competitive construction pricing insights and dedicated project leadership, the team anticipates challenges early and implements proven, tailored solutions that meet each client’s unique objectives.

To gain further insight into the team’s approach, the research team interviewed Senior Project Manager Trey Hafer.

How have you leveraged technology, including AI, to improve project delivery?

Trey explained how technology has become an important “efficiency tool in day-to-day project execution. AI is leveraged “as an assistance tool” to help review scopes of work, evaluate proposals and assess risk. It has also been used to compile notes for better presentation to clients, improving clarity and consistency while streamlining internal workflows.

How do you balance communication among diverse stakeholders?

Trey noted that communication is foundational to successful project delivery. As he stated, “communication is always the key to success,” and in many cases, the team’s approach is to overcommunicate. It’s also important to understand how each stakeholder defines success, whether that’s a critical schedule milestone or strict budget control. Weekly progress meetings and reporting help ensure that progress, schedule, budget and any open action items are clearly communicated and aligned across all parties.

How can owners attract tenants through improved design and amenities, especially in Class B and C buildings?

According to Trey, attracting tenants starts with first impressions. Ensuring spaces feel “clean and modernized,” particularly in lobbies and hallways, helps reposition older assets. Making vacancies move-in ready further reduces issues for prospective tenants. Many Class B and C tenants prioritize comfort, affordability and operational convenience, making it critical for owners to understand tenant use patterns and invest in improvements that will be utilized.

What are your outlooks for office design in 2026?

While the work-from-home phase is starting to decline, tenants continue to seek the comfort and flexibility that remote work introduced. Trey says this is driving demand for enhanced lighting controls and HVAC zoning that can be individually managed. Offices are also continuing to shift toward “more open layouts that can be flexible for size and open work conditions.” In the industrial sector, increased use of technology and AI is expected to drive an increase in electrical needs for most buildings.

What types of projects are you working on today?

Trey has seen project scopes run a wide range, from focused improvements designed to enhance leasing appeal to “multi-million-dollar developments and everything in between.” Recent work includes industrial projects requiring large doors, ramps and electrical upgrades for heavy equipment, as well as a high volume of smaller office renovations in the 1,000–3,000 square foot range. This breadth allows the project management team to efficiently scale solutions across property types and budgets.