All construction projects follow a similar process. It does not matter whether you are constructing a skyscraper or a simple one-room renovation. They all have to go through things like design and planning.
In addition, they all need supply and resource management, inventory, management of the actual project, and creating Milestone Payment schedules for other details that emerge after the completion of the project.
A good project manager with a solid plan plays a crucial role in the management of a construction project. The manager needs to understand the stages of construction to succeed in their work.
Construction Project Management Stages
The stages of construction project management have been revolutionized over time, mostly because of technological advancement.
Construction management platforms such as Archdesk have made it possible for stakeholders and project managers to identify everything that they need for their projects.
They also help in managing the different stages of construction project management. These stages include.
1. Conception Stage
The conception stage involves both the owner of the construction project and the project manager. At this stage, the project owner thinks about the kind of project that they want. It might be a home or even a commercial building.
He then starts research on the precise location for the project as well as the kind of a building, for instance, to be built.
On the other hand, the project manager works on the budget, thinking about everything that will need money throughout the lifespan of the project. This includes things like land, construction materials, licenses, and workers, among others.
2. Design Stage
After conceptualizing the project, the construction owner starts working on the project design. This is the first job that might involve bidding since construction owners need to look for architects and discuss their ideas with them (the architects).
The design stage involves several tasks. These include schematic design and development, feasibility study and programming, and signing of any contracts required before the project starts.
Most decisions are made in the design stage. It is, therefore, important for the project owner to make sure that they are working with the right people during this stage.
3. Pre-Construction Stage
This is one of the most demanding stages in the construction lifecycle. Once the construction owner has picked the right contractor for the project, this stage starts. The pre-construction stage requires the construction owner to bring a team together for the entire project.
The team might involve project managers, contract administrators, field engineers, supervisors, and safety managers, among others. The team then inspects the site to see if it is ideal for the type of construction that the construction owner wants.
After that, it comes up with a report detailing its findings. This includes any challenges that the project might face and changes that they might need to make. Local authorities are also contacted for approval.
4. Procurement Stage
After the authorities approve the construction – the requirements are different for different locations – the procurement stage starts. In this stage, the team is required to procure equipment, materials, and workforce.
The complexity and challenges faced in this stage vary depending on whether it is residential or commercial construction. It also depends on the size, location, and project budget.
This is the reason why modern construction companies have an entire team dealing with procurement.
Even though the procurement tasks are mainly handled by the main contractor, some of them can be assigned to subcontractors. These might include sourcing materials that they will use.
5. Construction Stage
The last stage in construction project management is the construction itself. However, before this stage starts, a meeting is conducted at the end of the previous stage to resolve any issues and ensure that everything is available.
During the meeting, things like work schedules, material storage, quality control, and site access for each member are discussed.
Team members are allowed to raise any issues during the meeting. After making sure that everything is in place, the actual construction starts.
Conclusion
Following the stages discussed above is important for the success of construction project management. After the completion of the project, steps such as inspection and training are followed before the project can be handed over to its owner.