Project Management Skills
Project managers require skills to oversee construction projects. These include:
- Leadership to guide teams.
- Communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills to manage stakeholders.
- Developing project plans and schedules, setting timelines, and tracking progress.
- Budgeting, cost control, and resource management.
Construction Management Skills
Construction managers require skills to oversee construction activities. These include:
- Managing construction activities within budget and schedule.
- Reporting to project manager about details.
- Overseeing building process, rarely visiting office.
- Following project manager’s instructions and reporting daily on site.
Definitions and Focuses
What is construction management?
Construction management focuses on managing a project from beginning to end. It is used for larger projects with many contractors and emphasizes cost and schedule control.
What is project management?
Project management focuses on managing a single task or phase. It is used for smaller projects affecting one contractor and gives more attention to quality and deadlines.
Roles and Salaries
Construction managers oversee day-to-day operations on a specific construction project, while project managers oversee all areas from the starting point to final yield. Both can earn high salaries, but construction managers may earn more due to the specialized nature of the work.
Those interested in various industries may prefer project management, while those with a specific interest in construction may opt for construction management.
Authority Differences
To understand whether a manager is higher, it is crucial to delve into each role and positions within a project. A project manager oversees the entire project from initiation to completion and acts as a bridge between parties involved. They typically have broader responsibilities and, in some cases, more authority over the construction manager. While both must manage budgets effectively, the project manager’s budget incorporates every detail from beginning to end.
Construction is a promising career with growing opportunities, especially in certain metropolitan areas.