What is construction management?

Construction management is a professional service that applies specialized project management techniques to oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of a construction project from start to finish. This service may be offered by a general contractor or a dedicated construction management firm, depending on the project’s needs.

What does a construction manager do?

A construction manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, budgeting, and supervising a project from development through completion. Construction managers often collaborate with architects, engineers, subcontractors, and project owners to address delays, resolve issues, and ensure the project stays on schedule and within budget.

Their duties include:

• Scheduling and timeline management

• Budget oversight and cost control

• Quality assurance

• Communication between project stakeholders

What are the five phases of construction?

The five phases of construction project management are:

1. Initiation

2. Planning

3. Execution

4. Monitoring & Controlling

5. Completion

Getting your construction manager involved during the early planning stage ensures greater efficiency and cost savings throughout the project lifecycle.

What is preconstruction?

Preconstruction is the critical first step in the planning phase. It includes defining the project scope, performing cost estimations, identifying potential challenges, evaluating scheduling needs, and conducting feasibility studies.
Effective preconstruction services can uncover time- and cost-saving opportunities and provide greater clarity before hiring a general contractor.

What does a general contractor do?

A general contractor (GC) manages the day-to-day operations of a construction site, including hiring subcontractors, procuring materials, scheduling work, and ensuring compliance with project specs and local regulations. General contractors are typically hired by business owners, developers, or construction management firms and may specialize in commercial, residential, or hospitality construction.

How is a construction project managed?

While project management varies by contractor and project type, key construction project management steps generally include:

• Developing a comprehensive project plan

• Creating a construction schedule

• Overseeing execution, performance tracking, and quality control

• Managing the final handoff upon project completion

How much does it cost to build a hotel?

Hotel construction costs vary widely based on project size, location, scope, and finishes. To determine accurate pricing and schedule expectations, consult a qualified general contractor for a detailed project estimate based on your specific goals and budget.

What are hard costs in construction?

Hard costs refer to tangible, physical costs of construction such as labor, materials, equipment, and site work. These include expenses for:

• Excavation and grading

• Concrete and framing

• Electrical and plumbing

• Roofing and landscaping

In contrast, soft costs include design fees, permits, insurance, and administrative expenses.