For our purposes, we will use “project management” to refer to both construction management and project management. Most laypeople think of project management as watching over workmen. However, that is only part of it. Project management involves:
- Evaluating a project and determining a full scope of work, including latent or unforeseen work items that may present itself as a result of the project
- Identifying the most suitable and appropriate contractors
- Preparing a bid package that would include detailed instructions, specifications, etc.
- Obtaining bids
- negotiating bid prices
- negotiating contract terms and conditions
- scheduling work to include critical path evaluation and timing (i.e., what work has to be completed before other work)
- ensuring and managing proper workmanship
- ensuring and managing the project schedule (i.e., time; staying on schedule)
- ensuring compliance with the contract
- Cost management (keeping costs within budget as well as making adjustments if/when unexpected issues arise)
- Minimizing potential safety hazards and protecting the existing (building) assets
- creating a punch list and overseeing completion