Construction project entails so many activities and tasks which include planning, designing, and building. It typically includes several phases such as feasibility study, design, procurement, construction, and post-construction. For an easy and smooth implementation of construction projects, there’s the need for different people with different roles to collaborate in all phases of the project. This post dives into the roles and responsibilities that are involved in the process.
The Client
The client is at the center and the driving force behind every construction project. What is to be constructed, where, when and by whom are all influenced by the client. The client provides the vision, sets goals and oversees critical decisions throughout the project lifecycle, and ensures alignment with their expectations. The client might either have in-depth knowledge about construction or know absolutely nothing related to construction. It is very important for the client to be actively involved throughout the construction period, but if he’s unable to and has lots on his plate then a client representative is opted for.
As part of all those responsibilities, decisions on budgets, contracts, payments and approvals are also included in the roles of the client. The client is basically the owner of the project.
The Architect
The architect plays a very important role in a construction project by conceptualizing, planning and developing designs for new buildings to be constructed. Architects are responsible for the visual appearance and functionality of a building but still have to have structural insights about construction to produce a constructible design. The architect works hand in hand with the civil or structural engineer to produce the design. Architectural drawings were first done by hand drawing but with the introduction of modern technology, the design is now made with software (CAD). By ensuring compliance with building codes, collaborating with other construction disciplines, and visiting the site during construction, the design vision is accurately realized.
The Civil Engineer
Based on the design made by the architect, the civil engineer makes sure to design the building or whatever is to be constructed to be feasible. The design is done with an emphasis on withstanding the loads that are coming onto the structure in a manner that it doesn’t fail. A feasible design is ensured by compliance with building codes and regulations. Civil engineers are also responsible for supervising and managing the construction, making sure everything is done according to engineering specifications and completed on the targeted timeline. Civil engineering projects are not only buildings but cover roads, dams, bridges, water supply systems, and geotechnical activities.
The Quantity Surveyor
The Quantity Surveyor (QS) is responsible for estimating project costs and monitoring contracts and expenses. Before construction starts, the QS is responsible for conducting cost analysis for materials, labor, vehicles used, and anything used through the construction process. It is the responsibility of the QS to make sure the construction cost and production are managed as efficiently as possible.
The Contractor
After the client is done making decisions on what is to be constructed, he hires an organization or individual to carry out the construction, this individual or organization is what we refer to as a contractor. Though contractors are responsible for carrying out the construction, they might not have all the skills and expertise at their disposal. This is where the introduction of sub-contractors come into play. The subcontractors do not have any contract with the client but with the main contractor instead. So a contractor might be going on with construction phases but with the lack of plumbers or electrical experts, the contractor hires workers for these jobs. These newly introduced experts are the subcontractors.
The Project Manager
The project manager is mostly part of the contractor’s team or is sometimes hired on a part-time basis. The project manager is in charge of overseeing the entire construction. He is responsible for planning the construction phase lifecycle from start to end. In the case of government projects, the project manager sees to it that a good presentation is done for the client (government), assuring them the construction is on the right path and would be complete within the timeline set.
Other personnel in the construction project team include
Foreman: Coordinates tasks among workers and ensures the flow of information from project managers.
Vendor: Person or company providing the materials needed for the construction project.
Interior designer: Works with the architect to produce a pleasing interior for the buildings.
Insurance companies: Essential coverage to construction projects, contractors, and workers against potential liabilities and unforeseen risks.