Construction Management
Construction management is a specialized field of management focused on the delivery of construction projects. The function of the construction manager - or project manager - is to plan, manage and coordinate the construction, alteration and repair of a building or other structure from the build’s conception through to its completion. This encompasses budgeting and scheduling resources, assessing feasibility, managing contracts and dealing with any potential issues that arise during the project delivery.
Construction management is an important role throughout the construction process, and working closely with other industries involved in construction, such as architecture and engineering, is essential to ensure a successful project. The aim of the construction manager is to ensure that all tasks involved in delivering a project are carried out on time and within budget.
Project planning is the first step in construction management, and includes establishing continuity of purpose, setting objectives, preparing work plans, developing schedules and budgeting, among other tasks. Without a clear plan and budget, the project cannot move forward. The construction manager needs to be able to assess the project’s feasibility and the resources required in order to ensure that the project is viable and that it is achievable within the given timeframe and budget.
The construction manager has a number of important responsibilities during the planning phase, including making sure that safety regulations are adhered to and that the worksite is kept clean and orderly during the works. He/she will also be in charge of selecting and hiring subcontractors, negotiating contracts and liaising with the relevant authorities.
Throughout the construction phase, the construction manager will be responsible for managing day to day operations, overseeing subcontractors, monitoring costs and managing risks. He/She will also need to be able to quickly identify any potential problems along the way and proactively develop solutions.
Once the project is complete, the construction manager will need to ensure that the building meets all building codes and other relevant regulations. He/She will be responsible for wrapping up the project, dealing with any leftover permits, resolving any final issues and handing over the project to the client.
Construction management is an incredibly important role in the construction industry. A well-qualified and experienced construction manager can be the difference between a successful construction project and one that is riddled with delays and overruns. In order to be successful in this role, one needs to possess strong communication and problem-solving skills, a keen eye for detail and good management skills.
