Construction Manager as Advisor Versus Construction Manager as Constructor - Which is Right for Your Project?

Introduction

Welcome to Jacques H Geisenberger, Jr PC - your trusted partner in the construction industry. As experts in the field of business and consumer services, specifically consulting and analytical services, we are here to guide you in making the best decisions for your construction projects. In this article, we will be discussing the differences between a Construction Manager (CM) acting as an Advisor versus a CM acting as a Constructor, and help you determine the right approach for your specific project requirements.

The Role of a Construction Manager as Advisor

A Construction Manager as Advisor acts as a consultant and provides expert guidance throughout the different phases of your construction project. Their primary role is to advise and assist you in making informed decisions to mitigate risks, control costs, and ensure the successful completion of your project. Engaging a CM as an Advisor offers several benefits:

1. Expertise: With years of industry experience, a CM as Advisor brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. They have a deep understanding of construction processes, methodologies, and best practices, allowing them to provide valuable insights and recommendations.
2. Objective Perspective: As an external consultant, a CM as Advisor offers an unbiased and objective perspective. They can evaluate your project from an independent standpoint, identifying potential risks and proposing effective strategies for risk mitigation.
3. Cost Control: One of the key responsibilities of a CM as Advisor is to help you optimize project costs. They can perform cost estimations, conduct value engineering exercises, and provide cost-saving recommendations without compromising the quality of work.
4. Quality Control: A CM as Advisor ensures that all construction activities adhere to the highest quality standards. They can develop and implement quality assurance processes, conduct inspections, and coordinate with contractors to ensure compliance with specifications and industry regulations.
5. Project Management: While not directly responsible for executing the construction work, a CM as Advisor oversees the project management aspects. They handle project planning, scheduling, and coordination, keeping all stakeholders informed and ensuring smooth project delivery.

The Role of a Construction Manager as Constructor

A Construction Manager as Constructor takes on a more hands-on role in your construction project. They not only provide advice and guidance but also handle the physical construction work. Here are the key aspects of engaging a CM as Constructor:

1. Direct Control: By involving a CM as Constructor, you gain direct control over the construction process. They take charge of project execution, managing subcontractors, coordinating labor, and overseeing the day-to-day construction activities.
2. Cost and Time Savings: A CM as Constructor can potentially save you time and money by streamlining the construction process. They have the expertise to optimize the construction schedule, identify cost-saving opportunities, and manage the procurement of materials and equipment.
3. Efficient Communication: Having a CM as Constructor enables clear and efficient communication between all project stakeholders. They act as a central point of contact, ensuring effective collaboration and coordination among the design team, subcontractors, and suppliers.
4. Increased Accountability: As the constructor of the project, the CM as Constructor bears a higher level of accountability for the project's success. They take ownership of the construction work, ensuring that it meets quality standards, complies with regulations, and aligns with your expectations.
5. Seamless Integration: With a CM as Constructor, there is better integration between the design and construction phases. They can provide valuable input during the design process to optimize constructability, resolve potential conflicts, and ensure smooth project progression.

Choosing the Right Approach for Your Project

Now that you understand the roles of a Construction Manager as Advisor and a Construction Manager as Constructor, it's important to consider your project's specific requirements before making a decision. Here are some factors to help you choose the right approach:

• Project Complexity: Evaluate the complexity of your project. If it involves intricate design elements, multiple stakeholders, or complex coordination requirements, engaging a CM as Advisor might be beneficial.
• Time Constraints: Assess your project timeline. If there is a need for expedited completion or fast-track delivery, a CM as Constructor can provide greater control over the construction process, potentially saving time.
• Budget Considerations: Review your budget limitations. Engaging a CM as Advisor can help optimize costs, while a CM as Constructor might offer direct cost savings through efficient construction management.
• Experience and Expertise: Evaluate your team's experience and expertise. If you have limited knowledge of construction processes, regulations, and best practices, the guidance of a CM as Advisor can prove invaluable.
• Risk Management: Consider the risk factors associated with your project. A CM as Advisor can help identify and mitigate risks through their objective perspective and industry expertise.

Conclusion

Choosing between a Construction Manager as Advisor and a Construction Manager as Constructor depends on the specific needs and requirements of your construction project. At Jacques H Geisenberger, Jr PC, we understand that every project is unique, and we are here to support you in making an informed decision.

Whether you require expert advice and guidance or seek a comprehensive construction management solution, our team of experienced professionals is ready to assist you. Contact Jacques H Geisenberger, Jr PC today to discuss your project and discover the best approach to ensure its successful completion.