Construction Management: Definition, Functions, Objectives, and Phases

Construction is one of the crucial activities in the development of a region. To ensure success in construction, construction management becomes a critical element. This article will discuss the definition of construction management, its functions, objectives, and phases.

Definition of Construction Management Construction management is a process aimed at organizing and managing all aspects of construction work to achieve results that align with the development objectives. This includes overseeing the physical quality of construction, cost control, and time management. Planning management only accounts for about 20%, while the rest is execution management, including cost and project time control.

In another context, construction management is a business model provided by construction consulting services. They provide guidance, advice, and assistance in construction projects. Thus, construction management helps ensure that construction proceeds according to plan.

Functions of Construction Management Construction management applies several key functions to achieve optimal development objectives:

1. Planning: Construction management is responsible for determining the construction plan, including what will be built, when, and how. Construction managers must make decisions during this planning phase.

2. Organizing: This function involves creating the organizational structure or divisions necessary for the project as per the plan. Managers are responsible for placing teams or workers into suitable divisions.

3. Directing: Construction management provides guidance, training, and direction to the workforce to ensure that assigned responsibilities are carried out effectively.

4. Controlling: This function involves supervising project activities, evaluating any deviations, and taking preventive measures against potential deviations.

In addition to these four primary functions, construction management also includes cost control, quality supervision, and time management.

Objectives of Construction Management The objectives of construction management are to manage construction to achieve optimal results as per the established requirements. This includes:

1. Cost Management: Managing costs efficiently and staying within the project budget, preventing unnecessary expenditures.

2. Time Management: Ensuring that the project adheres to the schedule with efficient workflow arrangements.

3. Quality Management: Ensuring that the work meets the established quality standards.

4. Risk Management: Identifying, analyzing, and mitigating risks that may arise during the project.

5. Human Resource Management: Directing the workforce during construction, including procurement, communication, and team management.

Tasks and Phases of Construction Management The tasks of construction management encompass various aspects, including:

• Supervising fieldwork and ensuring that construction is carried out using proper construction methods.
• Requesting written progress reports from contractors.
• Addressing or stopping work that does not conform to the plan.
• Holding regular meetings with relevant parties such as planning consultants, project owners, and contractors.
• Being responsible for approving materials used.
• Managing, directing, and coordinating contractor work in terms of quality and timing.
• Managing contract changes proposed by contractors.
• Reviewing shop drawings before work execution.
• Ensuring that the execution method complies with HSEMP requirements (health and safety, environment, quality, and security).

Construction management can be divided into four roles:

1. Agency Construction Management (ACM): Construction management consultants act as coordinators between design and execution and between contractors.

2. Extended Service Construction Management (ESCM): Construction management consulting services can be provided by planners or contractors but should avoid conflicts of interest.

3. Owner Construction Management (OCM): Project owners develop professional construction management responsible for project management.

4. Guaranteed Maximum Price Construction Management (GMPCM): GMPCM consultants act as employers to contractors, responsible for time, cost, and quality.

Construction management plays a central role in the success of a construction project. By implementing these functions, project objectives can be efficiently and effectively achieved. Mistakes in construction management can have a significant impact on the final project outcome, making a solid understanding of these concepts crucial in the construction industry.