Designing a building requires aligning the client’s needs with the building’s layout, appearance, engineering solutions and budget. It is also important to prepare documents and obtain the required permits on time. The project manager coordinates this work and helps keep to the agreed schedule and budget.
Main project stages
A construction project is usually carried out in the following stages:
- Understanding your needs. We learn about the client’s operations, the intended use of the future building, their needs and planned budget.
- Developing design solutions. We prepare plans and, at the client’s request, a 3D model. We refine the solutions with the client and engineers, taking account of how they can be implemented.
- Selecting a contractor. We prepare tender documents and organise the construction tender.
- Construction work monitoring. Once the contractor has been selected and the required permits obtained, construction begins. We check the quality of the work, inspect concealed work, hold weekly meetings, monitor the budget and carry out other tasks assigned by the client.
- Construction completion. We work with the contractor to prepare the required documents and arrange the construction completion procedures.
Documents and permits
Before construction, plot documents and required permits are reviewed. Depending on the project, the following may be required:
- documents confirming rights to the site;
- co-owner consents;
- geodetic data and a topographical survey of the site;
- site plan.
These documents and requirements are also taken into account during design:
- architectural and heritage protection requirements, and the conditions for connecting to utility networks;
- documents confirming the developer’s right to carry out the project;
- design brief;
- the application and supporting documents required to obtain a construction permit.
Depending on the building’s purpose and location, environmental impact or public health assessment documents may be required, along with design proposals presented to the public. Work begins once the permits required for the specific project have been obtained.
How a project manager can help
Building commercial, manufacturing or warehouse buildings involves coordinating many different tasks. An experienced project manager helps anticipate obstacles and find solutions. Poorly organised work can delay construction and increase costs. Project management tasks:
- prepare a work schedule and monitor its implementation;
- handle documents on time and properly;
- organise the process of obtaining the necessary permits;
- coordinate the building design with the brief and its surroundings;
- plan a budget that matches the building's intended character and scope of work.
The project manager helps align the client’s needs, the designers’ solutions and the contractors’ work. The earlier goals, budget and responsibilities are discussed, the easier it is to plan the whole process.