Construction management can be defined as an overall project delivery process where an investor obtains the services of an individual (usually civil engineers) or firm to manage the development plan.

The individual or firm is responsible for delivering expert services, such as value engineering, cost estimation, scheduling and construction activities coordination, to effectively implement the client’s construction work.

Civil engineers typically take the role of construction managers in most development projects. They ensure that the project is constructed according to plan and is responsible in meeting deadlines and budgets.

Construction Management Methods

The three basic methods of construction management are the following:

• Pure Construction Management
• Construction Management
• Construction Management at Risk
  

Pure Construction Management

The pure construction management method is used when a construction manager is hired by a client as an advisor with no general contractor involved. In this construction management method the construction manager is used as an advisor on a fee basis to help the client in working as the general contractor. The client signs all business contracts with subcontractors as well as with suppliers. This construction management method performs well when the client is experienced and knowledgeable with development tasks.

Construction Management

The construction management method is used when a construction manager is hired by a client and a general contractor is involved. In this method, the construction manager’s job includes advising the group on the viability of the selected design, supplying pricing information as well as examining the job during the development stage. Generally, one general contractor is selected to construct the project. The client signs business contracts with the general contractor. This method is particularly intended for large and sophisticated projects in which the client has made quality a priority.

Construction Management at Risk

Construction management at risk method is used when a construction manager is hired by a client to act as both the construction manager and the general contractor. In this method the construction manager’s job would be to advise the group on the viability of the selected design, supply cost information, examine the job during the development stage as well as hire and manage all contractors and sub-contractors needed for the project.

This method works well when the client has a great deal of confidence and trust with the construction manager and has a long standing business relationship with the individual or firm.

Choosing the right construction management method depends on the development project. It is always wise to consult a civil engineering firm to advise you on what particular construction management method would suit your needs. Godfrey-Hoffman & Hodge’s Civil Engineering Firm in Connecticut can provide you with the information you need to help you decide on what construction management service to use on your project. They are experts in construction management and are eager to assist you in meeting the needs of your development plan.

Key Takeaways:

• Construction management can be defined as an overall project delivery process where an investor obtains the services of an individual (usually civil engineers) or firm to manage the development plan.
• Civil engineers typically take the role of construction managers in most development projects.
• The three basic methods of construction management are the following: Pure construction management, Construction management and Construction management at risk.

  Image Courtesy of: Freedigitalphotos.net