Construction management is one of the most important disciplines in the construction world. It helps to keep each project organized, on-task and profitable. Understanding the details will help you to achieve better results with your construction projects. The following is a guide to construction management.
Key Functions
The main purpose of construction management is to guide and control the process of completing a project. The following are four key functions that fit into this role:
- Set and Oversee Goals: Every project has certain objectives that need to be satisfied. A big part of construction management is determining what those goals are and overseeing them. This should include defining a scope for the project and watching progress to see that the plan is executed properly.
- Manage Resources: Like any other business, construction companies have limited resources. Part of the management process is setting budgets and allocating resources accordingly.
- Coordinating Operations: There are many pieces of the puzzle that fit together to achieve a successful build. It is management’s role to ensure that all those pieces are coordinated.
- Communicate: In a similar vein, communication is a huge part of construction management. This includes within the construction team and with outside stakeholders.
Typical Phases
Most construction projects can be broken down into five phases. This begins with the initiation of the project. During this phase, the construction manager focuses on getting approval for the project. This may be bidding on a contract or seeking the necessary permits, financing and approvals.
After this, the manager works on planning the project. This includes setting goals, a schedule, a budget and other controls. Once planning is complete, it is time to begin execution. This is when the construction team actually works on the project. Simultaneously, the construction manager will monitor the team and progress.
Finally, the project reaches the conclusion phase. This is when the construction work is done. The construction manager ensures completeness and communicates with relevant stakeholders.
Process Tracking and Documentation
During a construction project, the manager must ensure proper documentation of the work being done. This includes everything from time tracking to documenting the specifics of work that has been completed. Fortunately, this can be made easier with the right tools.
For example, you can use a digital time card calculator to quickly capture the schedule details of each team member. Additionally, a well-documented plan makes it easier to keep track of the work that has been completed as that plan is implanted.
Tips for Success
There are a few tips that all construction managers can benefit from implementing. The headline is that diligence is the key to success. Follow these tips to help your career:
- Plan ahead and monitor your plan for possible pitfalls.
- Communicate constantly with your team and relevant stakeholders.
- Manage timer carefully. Excess labor costs can doom a project.
- Be mindful of your costs and reconcile them against your budget regularly.
- Know your contract inside and out.
- Stay humble and focus on leading by example.
Common Mistakes
Of course, people are imperfect and make mistakes sometimes. These can spell trouble for your construction project.
A common problem in construction is a poorly organized supply chain. If you don’t have the goods that your team needs, they won’t be able to work. So, making sure the flow of supplies is consistent is important.
Another common error is doing things the way they’ve always been done out of habit. There is nothing wrong with time-tested methods. However, being over reluctant to change and new ideas can be a problem. Finally, construction managers who forget about the people often struggle. While everyone is there to do a job, it is important to build trust and empower team members. Humility can help greatly with this.
Get Started
The above guide will help you to master in construction management and ensure that your next project is a big success. Learn more about this essential role today and find the tools that will help you to succeed.
