When it comes to the management of a construction project, most people have the misconception that it is a difficult task that can only be handled by those who are professionally trained for the job. While there may be elements of truth to this belief, it is also necessary for everyone to realize that this is not the only aspect of management that needs to be considered when managing a project. What then can we expect from project management in construction? What do the different elements mean to the process?
To start off, let us look at the different elements of project management in construction. These elements include scheduling and time management, budget management, cost estimation, resource planning and analysis, risk management and control, and preventive management. All of these processes should be considered to be integral parts of the management of any construction project. However, when they are combined together properly they form the core components of a successful project management process. In short, successful project management is not just about implementing effective techniques and systems that will effectively handle a construction project, but is also concerned with the entire life cycle of that project, from its inception to end.
The creation of a schedule is an important part of any successful management of a project. This schedule will contain all information regarding the activities involved in the project, including milestones and project specific work schedules. The creation of a schedule is not an easy task though, as many factors go into it, such as the magnitude of the project, the complexities involved, the involvement of various stakeholders, the status and progress of various phases of the project, and so on. Moreover, while the actual implementation of a schedule can be a lengthy process, it is important to consider the effective development of a schedule in relation to the overall objectives of the project.
Cost management is another important concept in the management of projects. Cost is something that cannot be avoided, and therefore must be included in the equation of any project. Cost can be reduced through various methods, such as reducing the scope of the project, the number of staff required for each phase of the project, and so on. In essence, any cost related changes should be planned for before hand, or the effects can be devastating to the overall budget of the project.
Project management also includes the control of information. As mentioned previously, one of the main objectives of project management is the reduction of costs, and this can only be achieved through efficient communication of information between all aspects of the project. For instance, during the initiation phase, when the project budget has been established, the team that is involved in that phase of the project must be given specific instructions on how to manage resources, and how much information to share with other team members. Once the project is well underway, project teams can then begin sharing information regarding various phases and activities.
There are many more topics that surround the subject of what is meant by project management in construction. Each of these areas will deal with aspects of the project, and how the team managing it can work towards the common goal of a successful construction venture. These include planning, organizing, communication, resource allocation, cost control, and information sharing. All of these things need to be properly managed in order to ensure that construction does not become unmanageable, but rather manageable and successful. Therefore, it is very important that any business that wishes to be successful in today’s construction industry takes these concepts into consideration.