This article from constructconnect.com written by Kendall Jones covers some tips for construction project managers.
Construction project managers are responsible for overseeing and supervising construction projects from start to finish. They are tasked with making sure projects are delivered on time and within budget. Job duties differ from company to company, but construction project managers are typically responsible for overseeing the budget, working with owners, architects, and engineers, hiring subcontractors, scheduling and planning work, and ensuring materials and equipment are delivered to the project site on time.
Successful construction project managers must be able to see the overall big picture of the project and ensure that the project is completed within budget and on time while also delivering a quality product to the client that conforms with all building codes and safety regulations.
Here are a few tips that make a great construction project manager:
Plan & Schedule
If you want your next project to be successful, you need to spend a fair amount of time planning and scheduling. Carefully review the plans and specifications to get a true understanding of the scope of work of the project. Work with your project team to coordinate and organize the tasks in the most logical and efficient way possible.
Make sure you have the resources needed to properly execute your plan and keep the project on schedule. This includes manpower, materials, tools, and equipment. Make sure to work with your subcontractors and suppliers to ensure that you are setting realistic expectations regarding your timetable and project milestones.
Be prepared to make adjustments to your plan as issues arise. You want to be rigid enough to keep your project on schedule and within budget, but flexible enough to adjust your plans to keep the project moving and avoid delays.
Learn to Communicate
Being able to effectively communicate is probably the most important skill a construction project manager needs to learn. A good construction project manager should be adept at both written and oral communication. All communication should be clear and concise. Sometimes a quick email or text is all that’s needed to convey your message while other instances may require you to pick up the phone or schedule a quick face-to-face meeting.
Establish a communication plan to determine what type of communications should be used for different circumstances and a chain of command for what information gets shared and who that information is shared with.
For example, items like RFIs and change orders should always be done through some form of written communication to establish a paper trail. When meeting with stakeholders and members of the project team it’s a good idea to take notes, and follow up with an email to ensure everyone is on the same page.
The flow of communication affects the flow of a construction project. Problems and delays can occur when people stop communicating or responding to inquiries. When everyone is communicating effectively and efficiently, it leads to better collaboration and projects tend to run smoother.
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