Effective Representation and Cost Management
The primary responsibility of a construction project manager is to provide unbiased project management and technical expertise to advocate for the owner's best interests. Serving as the owner's representative, the construction manager takes a holistic view of the project and oversees the entire process from feasibility to project team coordination. Utilizing specialized project management techniques, construction managers navigate the planning, design, and construction phases with proficiency in construction methods and technologies. They ensure optimal project plans by interpreting contracts, technical drawings, and managing the bidding process for team selection.
To minimize overall project costs, construction managers should be involved early in the planning stages to offer critical budgeting techniques and cost estimates, as well as feedback on design decisions. This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of change orders and budget increases during construction. Throughout the project, construction managers continually update budget and schedule estimates to maintain cost control and prevent costly surprises.
Project Controls and Risk Management
An effective project team includes the owner, construction manager, and architect to provide a system of checks and balances for design decisions based on cost, schedule, quality, and aesthetics. Construction managers implement construction scheduling techniques early on to identify and mitigate potential problems, reducing costs by accelerating schedules. They also manage bidding procedures and change orders to maximize work within budget and maintain quality standards.
Quality control is established through project requirements and inspection programs to ensure work aligns with contract documents and meets high-quality standards. Construction managers are also responsible for risk management, identifying and mitigating risks to protect owners from liability. By allocating risk fairly and closely monitoring construction progress, construction managers reduce the likelihood of financial risks, accidents, and disputes.
Work-Life Balance and Collaboration
For non-construction businesses, hiring a professional construction manager allows owners to focus on their daily lives without the stress of managing a project. Professional construction managers champion projects, resulting in a positive construction experience and better outcomes. By hiring an experienced construction manager who prioritizes the owner's best interests, project stakeholders can rest assured that the project will be completed on time and within budget, meeting all goals and objectives. Collaboration among the team and owner is key to success, with construction managers leading the way in managing projects effectively and efficiently.
