Understanding Project Management

Project Management Definition

Project Management is the art and science of organizing temporary activities to achieve a unique endeavor.

The art is in understanding people’s motivations, to correctly predict situations and actions.

The science is in knowing and understanding how to use common systems, processes, and tools; to plan, bid, and enforce the contract.

The art and the science of project management work together seamlessly.

Use the science of project management without understanding or recognizing the Art, and you’ll have more difficulty and costs, solving the problems that come up.

Use the Art, without understanding or appreciating the Science, you’ll end up with the very conflicts you wanted to avoid.

PM Role in Construction

The project manager is responsible for project delivery. The project manager must interface with the owner, contractors, inspectors, vendors, and (to a lesser degree) subcontractors.

Construction is often a lengthy process that can make for a messy business, and a good project manager is sensitive to the way time can change relationships.

Not all architects, contractors, or vendors are alike, and there are often differences in capabilities, experience, desire, motivation, and performance. It is the project manager’s responsibility to continually read the signals sent by the varying stakeholders and respond appropriately.

Take a deeper dive in the types of PM’s roles and motivations.

TIP: Understand where loyalties lie and align yourself closely with those whose loyalty align closest with you.