Construction Project Management : Main factors dictating it
Project management can be described as “the art and science of managing human and material resources throughout the project’s life cycle using modern management techniques to achieve predetermined goals of scope, cost and time. Construction management requires a deep understanding of design, construction processes, and modern business management. For a closer look at the features, stages, and challenges of construction projects and their managers, please read on.
Construction Projects: Not an Easy Affair
A construction project must be clearly defined and justified in order to achieve success. To achieve demonstrable results, the project must be guided by a detailed strategic plan. The strategic planning process will vary from one project to the next in terms of its scope, size, and location. It is difficult to manage construction-based projects because they often have ambiguous scopes. It can be difficult to allocate all resources in the most efficient way to achieve maximum returns. Most large construction projects, such as those that involve the construction of flyovers, bridges or electric transmission centers, commercial structures, residential complexes, and so on, are well-budgetated and require the involvement of highly qualified and experienced project managers. They also require strict compliance with certain construction management factors.
Role of Project Managers for Construction Projects
Project managers play a variety of roles in construction-based projects. Some organizations may need multiple managers to address the various modules of a large-sized project. Others may prefer a single project manager due to the low work volume. Each project’s budget and size determine the extent of the manager pool and how they are able to participate in it. All project managers must have the highest level of coordination. Sometimes it is necessary to hire a program manager to oversee all aspects of a construction project.
Managers who are proficient in project management are able to manage construction projects. They must be familiar with the entire project scope, location, political and cultural systems in the area where the project is located, as well as issues that can impact human resources and climatic conditions. These professionals must also have excellent interpersonal skills and communication skills. Managers must be able to identify all resources and manage the various stages of construction in order to ensure smooth execution.
Construction Project Management: Different Stages
Project Development
Project Initiation
Project Planning (Acquisition, Environmental clearance, etc.)
Design
Construction
Commissioning
Project Closing
Project Development
The project manager must be able to understand the various components of a capital improvement program (CIP) as well as the methods of developing it. This stage includes the creation and allotment of capital assets and capital needs, prioritization of the CIP processes, financial planning to balance the resources of funds and overall expenses within an organization, and so on.
Project InitiationOnce construction has been approved, the manager responsible must plan how it will be carried out.