Managing a construction project is quite confusing, especially when you consider the myriad of variables involved. Project managers usually find their work cut out for them when they take on a construction project, mainly because there are so many different things that they have to focus on. Usually, highly experienced project managers are needed onsite to handle construction project management. But, if you want to learn the many different stages involved in managing a construction project, you need to start by looking at the bigger picture. Here are the four important stages involved in managing a construction project.
- Setting the Budget
The first and most important stage is setting up the budget. The budget is critical, because it is one of the benchmarks that will be used to determine the success or failure of a project. The construction project manager will be responsible for evaluating each and every aspect of the project and come up with a suitable budget. The budget will include all of the variable and fixed costs that will be absorbed by the project, including the costs of materials, the labour involved, costs of permits, administration fees, and virtually anything else.
- Arranging the Work Timetables
Then, the construction project manager has to come up with a suitable deadline for the completion of the project. This will also entail arranging the work timetables of the people involved in the project. For instance, if the construction project needs to be completed on a shorter deadline, the workers might have to operate in shifts without letting up.
On the other hand, if the deadline is manageable, the employees can work regular days and make sure that the project is completed within the specified timeframe. The construction project manager will have to be responsible for arranging all of this while also accounting for any unforeseen delays too.
- Discussing Technical Details
All related parties that will be working on the project, including the suppliers and other professionals, will have to maintain clear lines of communication. This is important for many reasons; it ensures that everyone is clear about their roles. More importantly, lead times for materials needed onsite and any other important details, such as worker requirements or motivation levels, can be discussed. Discussing technical details is paramount for the successful completion of the project, and ensures that every person completes their designated responsibilities.
- Measurement
Once the objectives and key responsibilities have been defined, one of the key roles of construction project management is to make sure that the benchmarks are measured appropriately. There is no point in planning for everything unless you are able to track it as well.
These are just the four most important stages of managing a construction project. Obviously, there is a lot more that must be taken into account, but these are the four major stages that will determine the outcome of the project and ensure that it is successfully executed.
