CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT Meaning and
Definition
-
Construction management is the professional practice of planning, coordinating, and overseeing various aspects of a construction project, starting from its inception to completion. It involves the careful management of personnel, resources, budget, and time to ensure the successful execution of the project. Construction management encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including project planning, cost estimation, scheduling, quality management, procurement, and overall project coordination.
The primary objective of construction management is to deliver the project within the set constraints of scope, time, and budget while maintaining high-quality standards and ensuring stakeholder satisfaction. Construction managers are responsible for formulating the project strategy, developing detailed plans, and allocating resources effectively. They play a crucial role in selecting and managing subcontractors, monitoring progress, and resolving any issues that may arise throughout the construction process.
One of the key skills required in construction management is effective communication, as construction managers must liaise with stakeholders, clients, architects, engineers, and workers to ensure effective collaboration and exchange of information. They must also have a deep understanding of construction techniques, industry standards, and legal regulations.
In summary, construction management is a comprehensive process that encompasses the coordination and control of all factors involved in the construction project. It involves careful planning, organization, and supervision to ensure the successful completion of the project on time, within budget, and meeting the required quality standards.
Etymology of CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
The word "construction" comes from the Latin word "construere", which means "to build" or "to construct". It is derived from the combination of "con-" (meaning "together") and "struere" (meaning "to pile up" or "to arrange").
The word "management" comes from the Latin word "manus" (meaning "hand") and "agere" (meaning "to lead" or "to drive"). Over time, "management" evolved to refer to the act or skill of controlling, organizing, and directing a group of people to achieve a desired outcome.
Therefore, the term "construction management" combines "construction" (referring to the process of building or constructing) and "management" (referring to the coordination and control of resources, people, and activities) to describe the practice or field of overseeing and supervising construction projects.
