Types of construction management: Best practices to follow

Discover various types of construction management, from key roles of project managers to new technologies like BIM and AI

Construction project management is an ever-evolving field. Projects are becoming increasingly complex, requiring more delicate management. To ensure that no details are overlooked and mistakes are avoided in project management, it is essential to gain experience in the industry having a good understanding of new technologies and construction management software. This article can be valuable to you as it provides a wealth of useful information describing various approaches adopted in the construction sector, from traditional methodologies to innovative ones.

Introduction to Construction Project Management

The construction industry has undergone rapid transformation in the last decade, not only in construction techniques but also in types of project management. But what exactly is “construction project management”?

Construction project management is a complex process that involves planning, organizing, executing, and controlling all activities related to a construction project. The key figure responsible for these tasks is the Project Manager, a crucial role in ensuring that the project is efficiently completed within the specified timelines, budgets, and requirements.

Here are some key points to consider in construction project management:

Detailed Planning: It begins when creating a detailed project plan. This plan should include objectives, milestones, tasks, required resources, budget, and timelines. Accurate planning helps prevent delays and surprises during execution;
Definition of Responsibilities: Clearly defines responsibilities of each team member. This is essential to avoid ambiguity, ensuring that everyone is fully informed about their roles and tasks;
Resource Management: Allocate the necessary resources for each task. This may include personnel, equipment, materials, etc.;
Effective Communication: Maintain constant and open communication with all stakeholders, including the team, clients, and relevant authorities. Clear communication reduces misunderstandings and allows for timely problem-solving;
Risk Management: Identify and assess potential risks associated with the project, both in terms of costs and timelines. Plan strategies to mitigate or address these risks during the project;
Monitoring and Control: Track the project’s progress against the established plan. If there are deviations, take timely action to correct them, minimizing their impact on the final outcome;
Change Management: Construction projects often undergo changes during execution. It is important to have a defined process for managing these changes in a structured and documented manner, considering their effects on costs, timelines, and quality;
Quality Control: Ensure that the performed work meets established quality standards. This may require regular inspections and testing, to ensure that the project develops as desired;
Document Management: Maintain accurate documentation of all project phases, including communications, plans, changes made and decisions taken. This documentation is useful for legal purposes, as well as for transparency and continuity;
Project Closure: Once the project is completed, ensure that all details are addressed, including final checks, deliveries, and contractual obligations. Evaluate what worked well and what could be improved for future projects.

To carry out all these activities, the support of construction management software is indispensable.

construction risk management plan

Overview of Common Methodologies

Every construction site and project has its own challenges. That’s why there are different methodologies to manage them effectively. Let’s explore the most common strategies currently in use.

Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK)

PMBOK is a guide that encompasses project management best practices. In construction, PMBOK is a comprehensive guide that defines a set of standard knowledge and practices for project management. It provides a framework for planning, executing, and monitoring projects, ensuring they adhere to timelines and budgets. This framework was developed by the Project Management Institute (PMI), an international professional organization focused on project management.

PMBOK serves as a fundamental reference for project management professionals, providing a comprehensive methodological framework for successfully managing a project in all its aspects, from initiation to closure. Its importance is recognized globally as it establishes a common base of knowledge and terminology in the field of project management.

Agile Approach in Construction

In the context of construction, the “agile” approach refers to a project management philosophy and methodology aimed at improving efficiency, flexibility, and collaboration during the construction process. Agile initially emerged in the software sector but has found application in various industries, including construction, in recent years.

The agile approach is based on key principles that include flexibility in responding to changes, active collaboration with stakeholders, and a focus on delivering value in short and frequent intervals. In the context of construction, agile can be interpreted and adapted to suit the industry’s specificities.

Lean Construction

Influenced by manufacturing processes, Lean Construction aims to reduce waste and increase value by optimizing flows and resources. To delve deeper, read “Lean construction: 6 key principles and benefits in the AECO sector.”

Roles and Responsibilities of Project Managers in the Construction Industry

Behind every great building, there is a great project manager. But who exactly is a project manager, and what are their responsibilities?

The Project Manager in the construction industry is the individual responsible for managing the construction project from start to finish.

Because they oversee and understand the project in all its phases, they are among the most important figures in the AEC sector. They are responsible for supervising and collaborating with various project stakeholders, including clients, designers, general contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers, guiding the construction specialists’ team with the ultimate goal of delivering a quality construction.

Key Competencies

From coordinating teams to budget management, project managers must have a wide range of competencies, including:

Understanding client needs and requirements;
Negotiating with contractors and suppliers;
Selecting and leading the project team;
Coordinating multidisciplinary teams;
Ensuring cooperation and communication among stakeholders;
Supervising multiple projects simultaneously;
Managing costs, timelines, and quality standards for each project phase;
Regularly updating clients and various stakeholders on project progress;
Resolving any issues or delays;
Having knowledge of various areas within the construction industry;
Preparing bid proposals.

Variations in Management Based according to the Project Type

Not all projects are the same. The type of management can vary based on scale, budget, or site-specific requirements.

If you want to delve deeper into the role of a project manager, read: “Construction Project Manager: who they are and how to become one?.”

Best Practices in Construction Project Management

Understanding methodologies is just the beginning. Here are some practices that have proven effective in the field.

Cost Monitoring and Time Planning

Monitoring costs and planning ahead are essential to avoid surprises. How can you ensure that everything stays on track? There are construction management software solutions that help you plan activities and timelines to stay within the budget.

Risk Management on the Construction Site

From adverse weather conditions to delays in material deliveries, risks are everywhere. A good project manager knows how to anticipate and manage them while adhering to cost and time estimates.

Technological Revolution in the Construction Industry

Technology is changing the face of construction. Let’s explore some of the most promising innovations.

Building Information Modeling (BIM)

BIM is much more than a 3D design software. It enables optimal planning, design, and management of buildings throughout their entire lifecycle. For insights into how BIM benefits project management, I recommend reading the article: How BIM Helps Project Management.

Artificial Intelligence and IoT in Construction

From drones flying over construction sites to AI platforms optimizing logistics, AI and IoT are revolutionizing construction.
If you’re curious about how AI and IoT are used in construction, read: