Project management in commercial construction oversight benefits from methodologies, tools, and approaches used in other industries, as management skills are required in every company, regardless of its sector.
Because of this, it’s essential to recognize that there are several project management methodologies, with some more tailored to construction than others, and that there’s no single “right” way to approach all commercial projects. Construction project management services employ different methods depending on the project’s parameters, scope, timelines, and the preferences of the individuals involved.
4 common methods for commercial construction oversight
Some of the most well-known project management methodologies used in construction include:
1. Waterfall method
The waterfall method is one of the most traditional approaches in construction today. The name comes from a software development management method that stresses linear progression, with each step of the process leading to the next.Project coordination experts employ this approach in projects that are easily defined in the planning stage, where each task is dependent on the completion of the previous one, and one can’t be done without the other being completed, such as condominiums or government-funded projects.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Allows stakeholders to define goals and budget clearly. | Some teams will be inactive while others complete the necessary tasks, which may lead to frustration and slow down the project |
| Enable thorough quality checks at each stage. | The plan may be rigid once developed, making ongoing changes and adjustments difficult. |
| Teams can focus on milestones as the project moves forward. | Projects with numerous details or add-ons may not be suitable for this method, as it requires clearly defined phases and milestones. |
| Construction project management services generally don’t miss details because the project only advances once one stage is completed. |
2. Lean construction management
Based on the Toyota Production System, this approach aims to deliver better value while minimizing material and time waste. This commercial construction oversight approach often yields good results, thanks to its focus on respecting people and fostering effective communication with on-site workers on the construction project, as well as its drive towards continuous assessment and improvement.
Construction managers who use this method typically plan the entire project from top to bottom simultaneously, ensuring that materials and time are utilized efficiently throughout the process. Because of this, the lean approach often works best for projects that can be planned in advance and don’t have many unexpected twists and turns.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Streamlined processes often lead to increased productivity. | Workers and clients can misunderstand the meaning of “lean construction”, believing it’ll be less expensive. Though reducing waste often leads to cost savings, that’s not a guarantee. |
| Construction project management services typically achieve their goals by reducing waste and shortening the time to completion. | It has a learning curve for those new to this approach, and without buy-in from all the stakeholders, the project may jam. |
| Since processes are simplified and the project takes less time to complete, onsite injuries often decrease. |
3. Agile construction project management
This approach to commercial construction oversight is similar to the waterfall approach, breaking down the project into smaller stages; however, it allows simultaneous work and collaboration between teams at all stages of the project. This methodology prioritizes individual team members and their communication over tools and streamlined processes, allowing for collaboration and adjustments as the projects progress.Due to its focus on collaboration and flexibility, the agile construction method is particularly well-suited for innovative projects that involve uncertainties and require an emphasis on adaptability. For example, buildings that rely on renewable energy sources could benefit from this approach.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Allow the teams to maximize their productivity within time constraints. | Requires strong leadership from experienced construction project management services that can anticipate needs and twists. |
| Creates a collaborative ambiance, encouraging feedback from all involved parties. | Most construction projects don’t fit naturally into this method, resulting in more effort than with other approaches. |
| Fosters open communication within teams and stakeholders. | The extra efforts often result in additional costs. |
4. Critical Path Method (CPM)
CPM is a classical project management method in construction and remains one of the most used by project coordination experts. In this approach, the construction manager breaks down every step of the project and maps out a pathway to complete it efficiently and promptly.
Due to its required accuracy, the critical path method is best suited for construction projects that have access to adequate data collection tools and software, thereby ensuring accurate information about material availability and other resource allocation.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Most stakeholders and construction project management services are familiar with CPM, and it is easier to execute. | Since each step depends on the previous one, the project can be derailed if one step fails during execution. |
| Emphasizes efficiency and productivity. | CPM tends to be rigid and can’t provide the flexibility and adaptability some projects demand. |
| Paired with construction software and technology such as sensors and trackers, it provides remarkable visibility of your project. | Paired with construction software and technology such as sensors and trackers, it provides remarkable visibility of your project. Without high-quality data in planning, this approach can stall the progress or even lead to project failure. |
Bring your project to life with our project coordination experts in Port St. Lucie.
Let our experienced construction project management services take the lead on your commercial project, ensuring it is completed on time and within budget. Our expert managers have led our team to complete hundreds of commercial and residential projects nationwide, totaling over $150 million in value. Hence, regardless of the size and scope of your project, you can trust that your project will come to life just as you planned it.