Understanding the General Contracting Process

Jun 24, 2025

Starting a commercial build can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to make sense of the general contracting process while juggling your own day-to-day operations. Whether you’re planning a new facility, updating an office space, or restoring a historic structure, the details are daunting: hiring vendors, forecasting costs, staying on schedule, and making sure the build complies with every regulation. It’s no wonder many business owners hesitate to move forward at all.

But what if you didn’t have to carry that burden yourself? What if there was a clear path, a team, and a process that helped you feel informed and supported at every step?

In this article by W Gohman Construction, you’ll get a clear look at the general contracting process, and how a reliable project partner can keep things running smoothly from day one.

Why the General Contracting Process Matters

A commercial build without a structured process can quickly become chaotic. Timelines slip, costs balloon, and approvals get missed. And when the project lacks a clear leader to coordinate it all, the responsibility often falls on the business owner’s shoulders.

The general contracting process is what keeps everything connected, and W. Gohman Construction has developed a proven method to guide you through it. Their process provides a roadmap for managing budgets, coordinating vendors, staying on schedule, ensuring code compliance, and facilitating seamless communication. Without a system like this in place, you’re left making critical decisions without the right tools, insights, or support.

A well-developed process shifts the responsibility away from the client and into the hands of a team that’s built to manage complexity. That’s the goal: to help you move from idea to ribbon-cutting with confidence.

W. Gohman’s Contracting Process at a Glance

Gohman’s approach centers on transparency, efficiency, and partnership. Their experienced project managers streamline the entire build from early planning to final walkthrough.

Here’s what that process looks like in clear, actionable stages:

  • Pre-Construction Planning
    Define the project scope, goals, and budget. Identify risks early. Use forecasting tools to build a reliable roadmap before construction begins. 
  • Permitting and Approvals
    Manage the process of securing permits and ensuring all designs meet regulatory and code requirements. 
  • Subcontractor Coordination
    Select and schedule trusted subcontractors, ensuring all trades are aligned on timelines and responsibilities. 
  • Value Engineering
    Identify alternative design and material solutions that preserve quality and functionality while staying within budget. 
  • Construction Management
    Oversee the day-to-day progress of the build, proactively communicate updates, and ensure safety on-site.

  • Project Closeout
    Conduct inspections, finalize punch lists, and transition the completed space to the owner, on time and on budget.

Every step of this process is guided by open communication and a team mentality. That’s how W. Gohman ensures a smooth build with no surprises.

Partner with W. Gohman for your Next Commercial Build in Minnesota!

The key to a successful build isn’t just choosing the right materials or location, it’s understanding the general contracting process and knowing you have a partner who will guide you through it.

When your project is managed with clarity and consistency, you’re free to focus on the bigger picture: how your space will serve your team and your future.

If you’re starting a new commercial project in Minnesota, take the next step and explore the general contracting services available to support your vision.

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Let’s talk about your project.

We can build excellence together.

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