Project Management For Construction
Introduction:
Hello readers, in this article we are going to learn what is the role of project management for construction and its duties.
The role of project management
Project management for construction as defined by PMBOK 2000 uses knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques in a variety of activities to meet specific project needs.
Munns and Bjeirmi (1996) define project management as the process of controlling the achievement of project objectives. Using existing organizational structure and resources, the company seeks to manage the project by applying a collection of tools and techniques without adversely affecting its day-to-day operations.
The task of project management involves defining work needs, establishing work scope, monitoring work progress, and adjusting deviations from the project.
According to Austen and Neal (1995), the main aspects of project management are presented in Figure 1.4 and the cycle of activities
The project goals are shown in Figure 1.5.
Project management is aimed at achieving the stated goals of the project, leading to the completion, implementation, and due diligence of the project. Managing human time, finances and resources, and technology.
The project basically involves setting objectives, identifying resources, and formulating a strategy. Implementation involves sharing
Resources, guided execution, organizing efforts, and motivating staff.
Control involves measuring achievement goals, reporting, and problem-solving. Planning, Implementation, and Control Maintained on a continuous basis until the goals of the project are achieved.
Project management knowledge and practices are well described in terms of their component processes. These processes can be grouped into five process groups (initiation, planning, implementation, control, and closure) and nine knowledge areas (project integration management, Project Scope Management, Project Time Management, Project Cost Management, Project Quality Management, Project Personnel Management, Project Communication Management, Project Risk Management, and Project Procurement Management).
Project management is basically managing the project from one project to the next. Today, projects are more complicated than ever, embracing multiple disciplines and involving large amounts of money.
Although new strategies are constantly being deployed in project management, it is the basic ingredient of gathering ideas and implementing them successfully.
Project management, as we know it today, first emerged in the early 1950s on major defense projects. It was gradually adopted by the minor Firms, and currently, small construction firms, also perform project management in some form.
Why Build Project Management?
As we go through the next chapters, we find that there is probably no discipline that is more difficult than construction project management.
This statement may surprise readers; After all, the general goal of a construction project is simple – build a project on time, on budget, with the stated quality standards, and in a safe environment.
Looks so simple! Yet, research shows that less than 20 percent of most construction projects meet the four requirements above.
It is not surprising, then, that leasing companies or agencies in charge of construction may not have much respect.
Construction project management is known for persistent problems and the companies involved have a poor track record of performance.
According to Austen and Neal (1995), managing a project is different than managing a ‘steady state’ organization.
A project has a unique beginning and end. On the other hand, ‘steady state’ firms are constantly running. Some examples of a ‘steady state’ organization are mass production factories, where most of the day-to-day work is carried out.
Construction uses scarce natural resources. This requires even greater care in the management of construction projects resources should not be wasted.
Also read: Types of construction contracts
The past two decades have seen the growth of construction project management in terms of knowledge, management skills, and increased reach performance and quality.
Today, there are many excellent contractors who perform well on time, on budget, and by meeting quality and safety standards.
So, how do they do it?
This is the question we explore throughout the text. It is our endeavor to see the application of scientific principles in practice rather than relying solely on the experience gained on the project site.
Also read: Importance of construction project management