PROJECT MANAGEMENT  
CHOOSING THE BEST DELIVERY METHOD:
An Owner embarking on a development project involving construction must make an important decision regarding the
method by which the project is planned, designed and constructed the project delivery method. is decision has become more difficult in recent years as several “alternative delivery methods” have been developed to address weaknesses in the traditional design-bid-build scenario. A method that has gained in popularity is project management. is delivery method promises improvements over the traditional system in terms of planning, time, cost, project control and reduction in disputes. Project Management (PM) is a discipline uniquely tailored to the planning, design and construction process of capital projects. Indeed, PM has been used successfully by Owners who do not continuously maintain the staff expertise or numbers necessary to deal with the complex responsibilities involved in the management of major projects. The following is a discussion of some of the important points an Owner should consider in choosing a delivery method. Click on the link to see "How A Titan Project Manager Can Help".

Owner's Requirements:

An Owner has several areas of concern when embarking on a development and construction program, following highlights some of the key considerations in developing a development and construction program:

BUDGET:
The Owner has an obvious need to determine a realistic budget before design to evaluate project feasibility, to secure financing, and as a tool to choose from among alternative designs or site locations. Once the budget is determined, the Owner requires that the project be completed at or near the established figure without excessive over runs.

DESIGN:
Of foremost importance to the Owner is that the desired facilities function as envisioned, that the design program successfully fulfills the needs of the Owner and users. therefore, an Owner requires that its design team be well qualified in the type of facility being designed. In addition, the Owner must ensure that the Owner’s and users’ program needs are clearly conveyed to the design team. Since the design of the facility actually must be buildable and properly communicated in order to be useful, the Owner requires that the design documents are constructible, complete, and coordinated. The documents should properly incorporate unique features of the site to include subsurface conditions, interface with adjoining properties, access, and other characteristics.

SCHEDULE:
Owner has similar needs in the area of scheduling. The date of completion of a new facility can be critical, either in terms of generating revenue from the facility, or in terms of providing needed functional space by a particular deadline. therefore, a realistic assessment of project duration and sequencing needs to be performed early in the planning process. The schedule should then be monitored throughout design and construction.

RISK ASSESSMENT:
The development of any facility involves many risks. The Owner requires an understanding of the risks involved in the
development and construction process, and should make a conscientious decision regarding allocation of these risks
among project participants, so that all areas of exposure are properly understood. In considering risk allocation, the Owner should strive to assign risks to those parties that exercise control over those aspects. For example, it would typically be problematic to require that the contractor correct problems due to design errors at no extra cost since a contractor generally has little control over the cause or magnitude of such errors.

OWNER’S LEVEL OF EXPERTISE:
The Owner’s familiarity with the development and construction processes and level of in-house management capability will have a large influence over the amount of outside assistance required during the process and may guide the Owner in determining the appropriate project delivery system.

HOW A PROJECT MANAGER CAN HELP YOU:
Project Managers can support Owners with a proven strategy to deliver the best possible projects, on time and within budget. Pressure is falling on Owners, who will confront complex issues in every area from feasibility to technology infrastructure, from contractor selection to the finishing touches before “opening day.” Handling these issues assures proper planning to meet market demands, on-time delivery, it is completed within budget and meets your needs. But it also puts huge demands on your time and requires skills and expertise few Owners possess.

A Project Manager strives to give owners more effective control of complex development and construction projects, delivering high quality finished projects on time and within budget. The PM is your project advocate and advisor, combining detailed technical knowledge with a commitment to meeting your/project needs. Not affected by any conflicting interest, the Project Manager represents Owners in such crucial areas as:

Project Managers provide specific expertise for all facets of the delivery process (feasibility, planning, development, construction, etc.) without having to retain individuals on the payroll for specific tasks. By involving a Project Manager from the earliest stages of your project, you maximize your chances to achieve a smooth and trouble-free development and construction process and a facility that meets your market needs.