Architect as Construction Manager - III

“Project managers function as bandleaders who pull together their players - each a specialist with individual score and internal rhythm. Under the leader's direction, they all respond to the same beat.”L.R. Sayles

Image Courtesy: Urban Development Group, India

Financial Control: 

Architects are called dreamers who also dream of money. But it is also true that they are poor financial managers. When architect also dwells into a role of a construction manager, his financial skills and budgeting of the project is at the test. 

Common mistake contractors make is to divert the fund of one project to another project thus indulge in over trading. As a total in-charge of the project, your duty is to ensure timely payments to suppliers, sub –contractors and employees. Most of the firm fails due to mismanagement of the fund and cash flow.

Communication strategy:

In a design-build practice, you are directly in contact with the client on a day to day basis, which provides excellent opportunity to build your credibility and trust.  

However, in construction industry clients are often observed to be very demanding and edgy. Remember, your client doesn't know the building process like you know. You have to patiently educate him/her and manage the sentiments attached to the project. 

Well, thought out communication strategy will generate your goodwill which is essential for the success of your practice.

  

Maintenance and Post construction services:

Image Courtesy: Alliance Consults Pvt. Ltd., Nepal

Maintaining a building is as important as making it. 

In fact, an architect should specify the building specifications keeping in mind the hassle free upkeep and maintenance. Care and regular service ensure cleanliness and pleasing environment, thus ensuring a long healthy life to building. It will be a construction manager’s duty to design a maintenance strategy and educate the client for the same.

The good maintenance plan shall have followings:

1. Safety and security of the complex

2. Energy conservation 

3. Civil, Electrical and HVAC services

4. Landscape and arboriculture in the property

5. Amenities like swimming pool, gymnasium, etc.

6. General building maintenance of the building

7. Waste management

8. Any other facilities which require regular maintenance 

9. Provide ‘As built drawings’ including architectural details.

10. Checklists for each facility  maintenance 

Say yes 2 Architectural Management and ‘Keep your building clean and green’ !