4th August 2017
Roger Hannah
Any successful construction or development operation is orchestrated by a qualified project manager. A project manager is responsible for ensuring that a construction project is completed within a set time frame, within a set budget, from conception to finish. In order to be able to consider the importance of having a project manager, it’s important to understand the specifics and responsibilities of their role. In order to execute a successful construction project, the PM needs to implement the steps of time management, cost planning, safety and quality control throughout the process.
Preparation and Planning
For any project to be completed in the allocated time, a lot of planning and preparation needs to be implemented, which is where the project manager role comes into play. Before any planning or construction can begin, it’s essential to gain an in depth understanding of what a client wants, so that this can be implemented in all further steps. Not only does the project manager have to have exemplary organisation and planning skills, but in order for a construction project to be successful, they have to have experience and a knowledge of the industry and the specifics of the client’s requirements. The PM must effectively plan and prepare before embarking into the field, and in doing so producing the estimates for the cost and time scale. This should include an in depth risk assessment, which anticipates the risk of any given situation that could arise throughout the process. Health and safety is the main priority on any construction site, so any potential hazards or risks must be maintained and controlled throughout the operation.
Time Management and Budget
Construction projects can be extremely costly and can take a long time to be completed. In the case of commercial build or residential property project, there is an added sense of urgency to the process. If a project needs to be extended, then people are being prevented from moving into their new office space, or their new home. The benchmarks for the project must be enforced by the PM and completed within the confinements of the deadline, with the burden falling solely on their shoulders if anything is left incomplete. Materials, labour, tools and equipment can be costly, so it’s extremely important to draw up a budget, accounting for all of the costs, and to enforce it throughout the whole operation.
Communication and Mediation
As with any work environment, conflicts can arise on the construction site, for a project to run smoothly, it’s imperative for the manager to support and encourage their crew, and also defuse any hostility. Communication is key throughout the process, which includes on and off site liaisons, between all parties.
There are so many different aspects of a construction project that need to be accounted for and orchestrated throughout the operation. Without a project manager tying all of these together, the project has no real direction and can over run, over spend and potentially come to a halt. Without a project manager, there will not be a successful outcome to a construction project.