Within the field of Construction Project management (CPM), there may be some confusion between project management and construction management. Whilst there can be overlaps, there are in fact distinct differences in focus and responsibility between them.
This article provides a clear breakdown of both roles, helping you understand where they align—and where they differ.
Overlapping Foundations, Divergent Focuses
Both project management and construction management share a fundamental goal: the successful completion of a project within set restrictions such as timeframe, budget and scope.
Therefore both disciplines require strong organizational, communication and problem-solving skills. Both a project manager and a construction manager will be responsible for planning, executing and monitoring aspects of the project.
However, the primary difference between them relates to the specific industry and the specific lifecycle phase that they address.
By the way, if you're looking for a more comprehensive guide to Construction Project Management Best Practices you'll find that here.
Project Management: A Broader Application
What is a project manager?
This role is found in multiple industries (IT, manufacturing, publishing and construction). The project manager’s role is to oversee a project, usually from conception to completion. Therefore, they engage with strategy, planning, execution, monitoring and concluding a project.
A project manager should have good communication, leadership, problem-solving, time-management skills.
Construction Management: Specialization in the Built Environment
When you look at construction management, there are the same skills needed to be a project manager - however - there is a further set of skills that specialise in project managing construction projects.
Not only do they have the general project management skills, but they also need understanding of construction processes, equipment, labor, site conditions and the relevant regulations.
Key Differentiating Factors
Here are some key aspects that separate the two:
- Industry Focus: Project managers work across different industries, while construction managers are dedicated to the building and infrastructure sector.
- Project Lifecycle Involvement: While a general project manager might be involved throughout the entire project lifecycle in any industry, a construction manager's primary focus is often on the implementation and delivery phase of a construction project.
- Technical Expertise: Construction managers require a strong understanding of construction methods, materials, building codes, safety regulations and site management. They need to be able to interpret blueprints, manage subcontractors and resolve on-site issues. This is industry specific knowledge in greater depth than a general project manager would be required to have.
- Stakeholder Management: Both roles involve managing stakeholders, but the specific stakeholders often differ depending on the project.
- On-site Presence: Construction managers typically have a significant on-site presence, overseeing the physical construction activities. Usually a general project manager will have less direct contact with the day-to-day running of the project.
- Contract Management: Both roles involve contract management, but construction managers deal with specific types of construction contracts, including those related to trades, materials and equipment. Understanding construction law and procurement processes is often crucial.
- Education and Qualifications: While a general project management certification (like PMP) is valuable across industries, construction management often requires specific qualifications related to building and construction, such as a Diploma of Building and Construction Management or a Bachelor's degree in Construction Project Management.
In Conclusion
It is clear to see that project management provides the framework for managing any project, regardless of the industry. Whereas construction management brings in specialized knowledge and skills specific to the construction industry. For more on industry standards, see the Project Management Institute's role definitions.
If you are aiming for a position in the CPM field, you are going to want to look at further education opportunities and experience within the construction management area. If you are looking learning more about Lean Construction, improving onsite productivity and reducing costs, reach out to OE Partners.
