Construction projects often run over budget, but with the right approach to project management, builders can reduce this risk significantly, delivering work on time, within budget, and up to standard. At its core, project management for builders is about bringing together the right mix of people, materials, equipment, and technology—while also keeping stakeholders aligned throughout the process.
Whether you're working on a new home build or managing a large-scale commercial site, following construction project management principles at every phase of the project life cycle is key to staying competitive in the industry.
In this guide, we’ll break down what construction project management really involves, from building your team to using the latest tools that help everything run smoothly.
What is construction project management (CPM)?
Construction project management is the process of planning, coordinating, budgeting, and overseeing a construction project from start to finish. Unlike project management in other industries, it comes with its own set of challenges—like managing on-site work, dealing with permits and regulations, coordinating specialized trades, and even navigating unpredictable weather.
The goal? To deliver a finished project that meets the owner’s expectations for cost, quality, safety, and timeline. That means juggling complex contracts, keeping multiple teams aligned, and making sure everything follows strict codes and safety standards.
It’s more than just project management for builders—it’s a specialized discipline that blends technical know-how, leadership, and real-world problem-solving to bring structures to life.
Construction vs. Traditional project management
While project management principles apply across industries, construction industry project management comes with its own unique set of challenges that set it apart. Here's how:
Heavy reliance on supply chains – Construction projects depend on the timely delivery of materials and equipment, and any delay can throw off the entire schedule.
Weather plays a big role – Unlike many industries, construction work often happens outdoors, making progress vulnerable to rain, heatwaves, or storms.
Strict safety requirements – On-site safety isn't just best practice—it's a legal and ethical obligation, with real consequences if things go wrong.
Navigating regulations – Construction projects must meet building codes, zoning laws, and other local and national regulations, often involving multiple agencies.
Juggling specialized trades – Projects involve a wide range of professionals—from electricians to steelworkers—each with their own schedules, tools, and workflows.
Modern construction project managers must navigate these challenges while leveraging new technologies and maintaining competitive advantage in an evolving marketplace.
The construction project management team
A successful construction project requires a well-coordinated construction project management team with clearly defined roles and responsibilities. Each team member brings specialized expertise essential for project success.
Image source: aic-builds.org
Project owner
The project owner provides financing, sets high-level goals, and makes key strategic decisions throughout the construction process. Project owners may be individuals, corporations, or government entities who ultimately assume responsibility for the project’s success. They define project requirements, approve major changes, and ensure adequate funding throughout the project life cycle.
Construction project manager
The construction project manager serves as the central coordinator responsible for overall planning, scheduling, budgeting, and quality oversight. Many construction project managers hold PMP certification, demonstrating their expertise in project management methodologies. They facilitate communication between all stakeholders, manage project documentation, and ensure the entire project stays on track for successful delivery.
Construction manager
The construction manager is responsible for overseeing the actual construction process on-site, ensuring that the project is being built according to plans, within budget, and on schedule. In some cases, the roles of construction project manager and construction manager may overlap, especially in smaller projects where one person may take on both responsibilities.
General contractor
The general contractor transforms project plans into physical reality by managing daily site operations, equipment, construction materials, and labor coordination. They hire and supervise subcontractors, ensure work quality, and maintain responsibility for overall construction execution. The general contractor serves as the primary interface between the project team and on-site construction activities.
Construction estimator
Construction estimators prepare accurate cost projections using specialized software and deep market knowledge. They analyze project requirements to anticipate costs for labor, materials, overhead, and equipment. Their cost estimates form the foundation for project budgets, bidding process participation, and financial management throughout the construction phase.
Subcontractors
Subcontractors execute specialized work including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and carpentry under the general contractor’s supervision. These construction professionals bring specific trade expertise and often represent the majority of on-site labor. Managing subcontractors effectively requires clear communication, quality control, and coordination to prevent scheduling conflicts.
Superintendent
The superintendent handles daily on-site coordination, safety management, and ensures work aligns with project plans and specifications. They serve as the primary on-site representative for the general contractor, conducting quality control inspections and managing day-to-day construction crews. The superintendent’s role is crucial for maintaining safety standards and construction quality.
Project engineer
The project engineer bridges technical knowledge and field implementation, reviewing construction documentation and resolving civil or structural challenges. They often handle technical problem-solving, coordinate with architects and engineers, and ensure construction activities align with design specifications.
The 6 phases of construction project management
The construction project management process can be divided into six distinct phases, allowing for systematic risk management, team coordination, and efficient resource allocation. Understanding these phases is essential for effective construction project management.
Phase 1: Project initiation
Project initiation establishes the foundation for the entire project through comprehensive planning and stakeholder alignment. The initiation phase involves defining project goals, evaluating feasibility, and identifying key stakeholders.
Feasibility studies: The project team conducts detailed analysis to assess project viability, including market conditions, financial projections, and resource availability. Engaging in due diligence includes conducting a feasibility study to assess potential challenges such as regulatory requirements, budget considerations, and site limitations. This analysis determines whether the construction project aligns with business goals and can be realistically completed by deadline constraints.
Project charter creation: A formal project initiation document authorizes the construction project and defines initial scope, objectives, and success criteria. The project charter serves as the official mandate for project execution and provides authority for resource allocation.
Stakeholder identification: Key stakeholders including architects, engineers, regulatory authorities, and community representatives are identified and engaged. Early stakeholder involvement prevents conflicts and ensures all requirements are understood from project inception.
Initial risk assessment: The project team identifies potential project risks including environmental factors, regulatory challenges, and resource constraints. Identifying potential risks and establishing mitigation strategies is an essential part of the project planning phase. This assessment informs contingency planning and risk mitigation strategies throughout the project life cycle.
Goal setting and success criteria: Clear, measurable objectives are established for cost, schedule, quality, and safety performance. Having undefined goals can complicate risk management in construction projects. These criteria provide benchmarks for monitoring progress and evaluating project success.
Phase 2: Pre-construction planning
The planning phase involves detailed preparation that sets the stage for successful construction execution.
Detailed project planning: The construction project management team develops comprehensive project plans including task breakdowns, milestone definitions, and resource allocation strategies. Work breakdown structures organize project scope into manageable components, while Gantt charts visualize project schedules and dependencies.
Team assembly and role definition: All project participants receive clear role definitions and communication protocols. The construction project management team establishes reporting relationships, decision-making authority, and coordination procedures.
Bidding process management: The project team manages contractor selection through competitive bidding, evaluating proposals based on cost, schedule, quality, and safety criteria. Once a contractor is chosen, a payment agreement contract must be signed to formalize the agreement. This process ensures the best-qualified contractors are selected for construction execution.
Permit acquisition: Regulatory compliance preparation includes obtaining necessary permits, approvals, and inspections schedules. Early permit acquisition prevents delays during the construction phase.
Risk management plan development: Comprehensive risk management strategies include contingency planning, insurance requirements, and mitigation procedures. This planning prepares the project team to handle unexpected challenges effectively.
Phase 3: Procurement
The procurement phase focuses on acquiring materials, equipment, and services necessary for construction execution.
Material and equipment purchasing: Coordinated procurement ensures construction materials and equipment arrive when needed without excessive storage costs. Construction project management software organizes the planning, scheduling, building, resources, and reporting associated with construction projects. The project team manages vendor relationships, delivery schedules, and quality specifications.
Vendor selection and contract negotiation: Systematic vendor evaluation considers factors including price, quality, reliability, and delivery capabilities. Contract negotiations establish clear terms for materials, equipment, and services.
Supply chain management: Effective supply chain coordination prevents delays caused by material shortages or delivery problems. The project team monitors supplier performance and maintains backup options for critical materials.
Purchase order management: Systematic tracking of purchase orders ensures accurate invoicing, timely payments, and proper documentation. This management prevents cost overruns and maintains supplier relationships.
Quality control for incoming materials: Inspection procedures verify that construction materials meet specifications before installation. Quality control prevents rework costs and ensures construction meets design requirements.
Phase 4: Construction execution
The execution phase represents active construction with daily management of all project activities. The monitoring phase involves tracking progress against the project schedule and budget, ensuring adherence to quality standards.
Daily site operations management: The construction project management team coordinates daily activities including labor scheduling, equipment deployment, and material delivery. Regular progress monitoring ensures the project stays on schedule and within budget.
Resource management: Effective coordination of labor, equipment, and materials optimizes productivity while minimizing costs. Resource allocation adjusts to changing conditions and project requirements.
Safety program implementation: Comprehensive safety management includes training programs, hazard identification, and incident prevention procedures. Safety compliance protects workers and prevents costly accidents or legal liability.
Quality control inspections: Regular inspections verify that construction work meets specifications and building codes. Quality control prevents defects that could require expensive corrections or impact building performance.
Change order management: Formal procedures handle scope adjustments, cost impacts, and schedule modifications. Proper change order management prevents scope creep and maintains budget control.
Stakeholder communication: Regular progress updates keep all stakeholders informed about project status, challenges, and achievements. Effective communication prevents misunderstandings and maintains project support.
Phase 5: Commissioning and Closeout
The commissioning phase prepares the completed construction project for owner occupancy and operation. This phase ensures that the completed construction meets operational standards before the handover to the client.
Final walkthrough and punch list creation: Comprehensive inspections identify remaining tasks, defects, or incomplete work items. The punch list provides a systematic approach to addressing all outstanding issues before project completion.
System testing and commissioning: Building systems including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and technology systems undergo comprehensive testing to ensure proper operation. Commissioning verifies that all systems meet design specifications and operate efficiently.
Final inspections and regulatory approvals: Government inspectors verify that construction meets all applicable building codes and safety requirements. Final approvals enable occupancy permits and project closeout.
Client training: The project team provides training on building operations, maintenance requirements, and system controls. Proper training ensures the project owner can effectively operate and maintain their new facility.
Documentation compilation: Complete project documentation including warranties, operating manuals, as-built drawings, and maintenance schedules is compiled and delivered to the project owner.
Phase 6: Post-construction and warranty
The final phase ensures successful project delivery and addresses any post-occupancy issues. The project closure phase includes final inspections, addressing any remaining issues, and compiling documentation for the project.
Client occupancy support: The project team assists with move-in coordination, system startup, and initial operations support. This assistance ensures a smooth transition to building occupancy.
Warranty period management: Ongoing support during warranty periods includes addressing defects, system adjustments, and maintenance coordination. Proper warranty management protects the project owner’s investment and maintains contractor reputation.
Project review and lessons learned: Comprehensive project evaluation identifies successes, challenges, and improvement opportunities for future projects. This review process contributes to continuous improvement in construction project management practices.
Final project closure: Formal project closure includes final payments, lien releases, and team disbandment. The project closeout phase includes wrapping up all construction activities and formally closing out the project. Proper closure ensures all contractual obligations are fulfilled and relationships are maintained for future projects.
Essential project management features for builders
Construction management software streamlines project management processes and improves productivity while keeping to a tight schedule and budget. Here are the essential features you need for your project and why.
Gantt charts
Gantt charts provide visual timeline management with drag-and-drop editing capabilities and critical path identification. These construction project management tools enable real-time schedule adjustments and help construction project managers track progress against planned milestones.
Task management systems
These systems offer interactive task lists with file sharing, comments, and real-time assignments. Team members can update progress, share documents, and collaborate effectively regardless of location.
Dashboards
Provide high-level project views with graphs, charts, and performance metrics. Construction project managers can quickly assess project status and identify areas requiring attention.
Digital timesheets
Enable remote hour tracking with automated notifications and approval workflows. Mobile timesheet access improves accuracy and reduces administrative overhead for construction crews.
Reporting tools
Help teams carry out analysis, cost tracking, and stakeholder communication capabilities. Automated reports keep all stakeholders informed while reducing manual administrative work.
5 best construction project management tools
To keep construction projects running smoothly, many teams turn to technology. The right construction management tools can simplify everything from document management and cost tracking to resource allocation and scheduling. Below, we’ve rounded up 5 of the best software options for project management in the construction industry.
1. Lark - Best construction project management software for builders
Whether you're in the office or on the construction site, Lark delivers an all-in-one software solution to teams needing to manage a construction project.
Lark key features
Stay connected on-site and off: Lark brings your team together with built-in chat, video calls, and shared calendars. Whether you're sitting at your desk or on the job site, everyone stays in sync and decisions get made faster.
Build custom workflows—no coding needed: With Lark Base, you can set up custom workflows to handle repetitive tasks like approvals, checklists, and progress tracking. It’s easy to use and fully adaptable to how your team works—no IT help required.
Work on documents together, in real time: Forget emailing files back and forth. Lark lets your team edit and share documents together, live. Perfect for reviewing site plans, safety protocols, or project updates.
Track progress with clear, simple reports: Lark’s analytics tools help you see what’s on track and what needs attention. Use real-time data to make smart calls relating to project milestones and cost management. Plus, set up Gantt charts, Kanban boards, and other views to see your project from every angle.
Lark pros
More than project spreadsheets: Lark gives you the power of spreadsheets, combined with modern tools for managing data and workflows. Perfect for tracking budgets, materials, schedules, and more all in one place.
Keep everything and everyone in sync: No more juggling a dozen different apps. Lark brings chat, video calls, docs, calendars, and project tools together on all your devices, so your crew and office staff are always on the same page.
Budget-friendly for teams of any size: Whether you’re a small crew or a growing firm, Lark’s free plan is surprisingly generous—and the paid plans are affordable too. This makes it an ideal project management software for home builders as well as larger enterprises looking for cost-effective solutions.
Great for both numbers and visuals: Need to run the numbers and show progress at a glance? Lark handles calculations and data visualizations with ease, making it simple to share updates with clients or stakeholders.
Built-in messenger keeps communication flowing: Lark’s built-in messenger means no more missed updates or switching between apps. Everyone, from field teams to project managers, stays in the loop.
Automate the busywork: Lark helps you cut down on repetitive tasks like manual check-ins or approvals. With automation built in, your team can save time, reduce errors, and focus on the work that matters.
Lark limitations
The wealth of features may require some time to learn.
Lark pricing
Starter: Free
Pro: $12 per user/month
Enterprise: Contact sales for a custom quote
2. Wrike - Best for agile construction workflows
Wrike is a powerful project management tool for builders juggling multiple teams, deadlines, and deliverables.
Image source: wrike.com
Wrike key features
Custom dashboards and real-time updates: Track tasks, timelines, and milestones across multiple teams with live dashboards that give you a full picture of what’s happening on site and off.
Blueprints for repeatable projects: Use Wrike’s project templates (called Blueprints) to quickly kick off new builds with consistent processes—perfect for firms handling similar projects across locations.
Visual project planning: With interactive Gantt charts and workload views, you can easily plan schedules, assign tasks, and spot bottlenecks before they become problems.
Wrike pros
Built for complex projects: Wrike is ideal for managing multiple job sites, subcontractors, and overlapping deadlines—all from one centralized platform.
Highly customizable workflows: Create task pipelines that match your specific construction process, from design and permitting to punch lists and inspections.
Powerful integrations: Connect Wrike with other tools you already use, like Microsoft Teams, Google Drive, or your accounting software.
Wrike limitations
The interface can feel complex at first, especially for teams new to project management software.
Wrike pricing
Free: Basic task management for small teams
Team: $9.80 per user/month
Business: $24.80 per user/month
Enterprise: Contact sales for a custom quote
Pinnacle: For advanced use cases and analytics—custom pricing
3. Contractor Foreman - Best workforce management features
Contractor Foreman is designed specifically for construction pros. Whether you're managing residential remodels or commercial builds, it gives you everything you need to run your jobs
Image source: contractorforeman.com
Contractor Foreman key features
Built-in estimating and job costing
Create professional estimates, manage budgets, and track job costs in real time—so you always know where your money’s going.Scheduling tools designed for construction
Plan tasks with drag-and-drop Gantt charts, assign work to crews, and get a clear view of what’s happening each day on every site.Daily logs and safety reports
Log jobsite activity, weather, photos, and incidents—all from your phone. Helps you stay compliant and document everything for clients or inspections.
Contractor Foreman pros
Made for construction: Unlike general-purpose tools, Contractor Foreman is built specifically for the construction industry, with features tailored to real jobsite needs.
Impressive feature depth at a low price: Offers over 40 tools—estimating, invoicing, CRM, timesheets, and more—at a fraction of the cost of some competitors.
Strong mobile app: Field workers can use it just as easily as office staff, making it easier to log updates, submit forms, or check job details on the go.
Contractor Foreman limitations
The interface may feel a bit dated compared to more modern tools.
Contractor Foreman pricing
Standard: $49/month for 3 users
Plus: $87/month for 6 users
Pro: $123/month for 10 users
Unlimited: $148/month for unlimited users
4. Zoho Projects – Best for managing timelines and team tasks
Zoho Projects is an intuitive project management solution that’s well-suited for construction teams looking for an affordable, feature-packed tool to manage projects from start to finish.
Image source: zoho.com
Zoho Projects key features
Task and milestone tracking
Zoho Projects allows you to break down your construction projects into tasks, milestones, and sub-tasks. You can assign deadlines, track progress, and set dependencies to ensure timely completion.Gantt charts for visual planning
Visualize your project’s schedule with Gantt charts. Track timelines, resources, and dependencies, and make sure everything’s on track—even when there are multiple moving parts.Collaboration tools for teams
With built-in chat, discussion forums, and document sharing, Zoho Projects keeps your team connected, no matter where they are. Share project updates, site photos, and important documents with just a few clicks.
Zoho Projects pros
User-friendly interface: Zoho Projects is simple to navigate, making it great for construction teams who want an easy-to-use tool without a steep learning curve.
Affordable pricing: With competitive pricing, Zoho Projects is an ideal choice for small to mid-sized construction firms looking to get the most value without breaking the budget.
Built-in time and expense tracking: Keep track of labor hours, expenses, and overall project costs without needing to use external tools or spreadsheets.
Seamless document management: Upload and store all your construction project documents in one place, and easily share them with team members, subcontractors, and clients.
Customizable reports: Generate detailed reports on project progress, costs, and team performance to keep stakeholders informed and ensure everything is on track.
Zoho Projects limitations
Limited integrations with some third-party apps compared to other project management tools
Zoho Projects pricing
Free: For up to 3 users with basic project management features
Premium: $5 per user/month
Enterprise: $10 per user/month
Ultimate: $15 per user/month (for advanced features like resource management and reporting)
5. OrangeScrum – Best open-source construction project management tool
OrangeScrum is a versatile project management software for builders looking for a customizable, open-source solution.
Image source: orangescrum.com
OrangeScrum key features
Task and project tracking
Create tasks, assign them to team members, and set deadlines with ease. Track daily work progress and keep your crew aligned from start to finish.Resource and workload management
OrangeScrum lets you manage workloads efficiently by assigning the right people to the right tasks, helping prevent delays and overbooking.On-premise and cloud options
Choose between cloud hosting or an open-source, self-hosted version for full control over your data—great for firms with specific IT or security requirements.
OrangeScrum pros
Highly customizable: Ideal for teams that want to tailor workflows, roles, or permissions to fit their unique construction processes.
Affordable and flexible hosting: Use the cloud version for ease or host it yourself for greater control and customization.
Robust time and resource tracking: Stay on top of labor costs, timelines, and workloads without needing multiple tools.
OrangeScrum limitations
May require IT support for the self-hosted version
OrangeScrum pricing
Cloud (Free): For up to 3 users with basic features
Startup: $9 per month for up to 10 users
Professional: $79 per month for up to 50 users
Self-hosted: Starts at a one-time fee of $299 (hosted on your own server, with full control)
Emerging construction management technologies
As the construction industry evolves, emerging technologies are reshaping the way projects are managed.
Building information modeling (BIM) enables three-dimensional modeling for design visualization and clash detection before construction begins. BIM technology reduces errors, improves coordination, and enhances communication with project stakeholders.
Drones provide aerial site monitoring, progress tracking, and safety inspections from perspectives impossible with ground-based observation. Regular drone surveys can track progress, monitor safety compliance, and provide valuable documentation.
Virtual reality (VR) offers immersive design visualization that improves stakeholder communication and decision-making. VR technology helps clients understand design concepts and identify potential issues before construction begins.
Artificial intelligence and automation enable predictive analytics for risk management and automate routine administrative tasks. AI-powered tools can analyze historical data to predict potential problems and optimize resource allocation.
Mobile apps provide real-time updates, field communication, and document access for construction teams. Mobile technology ensures all team members have access to current information regardless of their location on the job site.
Best practices for managing construction projects
Successful construction project managers combine technical expertise with leadership skills and practical field experience. These best practices reflect lessons learned from thousands of successful construction projects across various markets for both public and commercial projects.
Field-based management
Spend time on job sites to understand real-world constraints, build relationships with construction crews, and identify potential problems early. Field presence demonstrates commitment to project success and provides valuable insights for decision-making.
Understand field conditions including site access, utility locations, soil conditions, and environmental factors that impact construction activities. Field knowledge enables more accurate planning and realistic schedule development for a particular project.
Build relationships with construction teams including subcontractors, suppliers, and field personnel who execute daily construction activities. Strong relationships improve communication, problem-solving, and overall project performance.
Communication and leadership
Maintain open communication with all project stakeholders including project owners, construction teams, regulatory authorities, and community members. Transparent communication builds trust and prevents misunderstandings that could disrupt project progress.
Foster teamwork among diverse construction professionals with different backgrounds, expertise, and organizational loyalties. Effective team building improves collaboration and overall project performance.
Manage diverse stakeholders with varying interests, priorities, and communication preferences. Stakeholder management requires understanding different perspectives and finding common ground for project success.
Professional development
Build project management knowledge through industry certification programs, technology training, and best practice development. Continuous learning keeps construction project managers current with evolving industry standards and methodologies.
Maintain professional certifications such as PMP certification that demonstrate expertise in project management methodologies and commitment to professional standards. Certification provides credibility and access to continuing education resources.
Learn from project experience through systematic project reviews, lessons learned documentation, and performance analysis. Experience-based learning improves decision-making and project outcomes for future projects.
Safety and compliance
Implement safety-first culture with comprehensive training programs, hazard identification procedures, and incident prevention protocols. Safety leadership protects workers while preventing costly accidents and legal liability.
Ensure regulatory compliance through building code adherence, permit management, and inspection coordination. Compliance prevents delays, legal issues, and additional costs that could impact project success.
Document everything including decisions, changes, communications, and approvals for legal protection and project learning. Comprehensive documentation provides audit trails and supports dispute resolution if necessary.
Technology and methodology
Leverage construction project management tools including scheduling software, communication platforms, and mobile applications that improve efficiency and coordination. Technology adoption provides competitive advantages and improved project outcomes.
Use proven methodologies such as Waterfall project management that provide structured approaches to construction project delivery. Established methodologies reduce risks and improve predictability for project stakeholders.
Integrate lean principles to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and enhance value delivery for project owners. Lean construction practices eliminate non-value-added activities and optimize resource utilization.
Final thoughts on project management for builders
Construction project management is both an art and a science, blending technical skills, leadership, and effective communication to deliver successful projects. From managing diverse teams and navigating complex regulations to utilizing cutting-edge technologies, project managers play a crucial role in ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
By embracing the right tools, staying ahead of emerging technologies, and fostering strong relationships with all project stakeholders, builders can minimize risks and maximize success. Whether you're handling a small residential build or a large-scale commercial project, the principles of effective project management remain the same—clear planning, diligent execution, and continuous improvement.
FAQs
What is project management in building construction?
Project management in building construction is about making sure the entire project—from the first idea to the final touch—is organized, on schedule, and within budget. It’s the process of keeping everything moving smoothly, coordinating resources, and managing risks. The project manager ensures everyone is on the same page, that safety regulations are followed, and that the finished building meets the quality standards the client expects. It's the glue that holds everything together.
What are the 5 C's of project management?
The 5 C's of project management are key principles that help keep a project on track:
Clarity: Making sure everyone knows what the project is about, what needs to be done, and what the end goal is.
Communication: Keeping lines of communication open so everyone stays informed and issues are caught early.
Coordination: Ensuring all pieces of the project puzzle—resources, schedules, and teams—fit together without chaos.
Commitment: Getting everyone on board, from the project team to the client, ensuring everyone is dedicated to making the project successful.
Control: Keeping a close eye on progress, managing risks, and making adjustments as needed to stay on target.
What are the 7 stages of a construction project?
Every construction project goes through either six or seven stages. For certain commercial or public projects a 7-stage process may be better suited:
Initiation: This is where it all starts—the idea stage. The project’s goals, timeline, and scope are defined, and a feasibility study is done to see if the project is doable.
Design: Architects and engineers create the plans and designs. It’s where the vision starts taking shape, but they also have to make sure everything is up to code and sustainable.
Pre-construction: This stage is about lining up the right people—contractors, permits, and the logistics of making the whole thing happen.
Procurement: Time to gather the materials, hire subcontractors, and finalize contracts so everything needed for construction is ready to go.
Construction: This is where the hard work happens. The team builds the structure according to the plans, making adjustments as they go along.
Commissioning: Once the building’s done, it’s time for testing. Systems like plumbing, HVAC, and electrical are checked to ensure everything is working properly.
Closeout: The final step. The project is handed over to the client, any last bits of paperwork are wrapped up, and the building is ready to be used.
What is a contractor project?
A contractor project is a construction or service project where a contractor is hired to manage or complete specific tasks. They oversee the work, handle materials, and ensure the project stays on schedule and within budget. Contractors may hire subcontractors for specialized tasks, all under a formal agreement outlining the project’s scope and cost.
For interested contractors, these projects present opportunities to apply their expertise, whether they specialize in general construction or specific trades like electrical, plumbing, or HVAC.
What is the best tool for managing project management construction projects?
The tool you need may depend on the type of construction projects you're dealing with. For example, for simple home building project management, Lark is a great tool, offering features like Gantt charts, dashboards, document management, team communication, task tracking, and collaboration tools to keep project management plans organized and on schedule.
What's the difference between project management software for home builders and commercial builders?
While the same construction project management software can be used by both home and commercial builders, the tools and features each builder would need may differ.
For example, both types of builders can benefit from scheduling, budget tracking, and document management features. But home builders may focus more on simple project timelines and client communication, while commercial builders may require advanced financial management, compliance tracking, and resource allocation tools for larger, multi-phase projects.
What are the best construction project management courses to take?
If you're looking to level up your construction management skills these courses will guide you through everything from project planning to risk management:
PamavTech – 3-day course covering project planning, risk management, and cost control.
CIOB Academy – Online certificate focusing on project lifecycle, contract management, and quality control.
PMI – Online certification for experienced managers, covering integration, scope, and stakeholder management.
ICE Training– 2-day in-person course on project initiation, risk assessment, and performance measurement.
RICS – 90-hour online certificate covering planning, refurbishment, and demolition.
Columbia University – 3-month online certification focusing on strategic planning, project execution, and leadership.
Table of Contents
