The construction project team and their different roles in the project implementation
1. Client
A client is defined as someone in charge of the project hence playing a very crucial role in the project implementation and mainly on the financial side.
The client's main roles include;
•Initiation of the project:
A client initiates the project by defining the goals and objectives of the project.
This includes setting the purpose of the project and establishing the timeline of the project.
•Contracting and procuring
The client is part of the team to select the contractor, different suppliers and different vendors involved in the project.
The client and his team issue requests for proposals (RFP) evaluate bids and negotiate contracts and the best bidder is awarded the contract.
•Financial Management
The client manages the project budget and finances. They provide funding for the construction project, monitor expenses, review payment requests by the contractor with the help of the consultant and quantity surveyor and then issue payments.
For the smooth running of projects, it's advisable to always clear payments on time and also avoid delays in payments.
Delayed payment is approximated to 28 days after a request has been certified by the quantity surveyor.
• Project acceptance
Once the construction work is completed, the client with the help of the consultant inspects the project to ensure that it meets their expectations and requirements. They may conduct a final walkthrough, review documentation, and issue the final acceptance or sign-off on the project.
However, according to contracts, a project is given a defect period which is determined by the bidding team
This period is after the completion of the project.
During this period, the project is under close monitoring for detection of any defects and if a defect is detected before the lapse of this period, the contractor is called back to correct the defect on his or her finances.
2. Architect
An architect is the engineer in charge of designing the outlook and appearance of the project and hence plays a very crucial role from the design stage to the completion and occupancy stage.
The main roles of the architect in the project include;
•Design Development
The architect works closely with the client to understand their requirements, objectives, and budget constraints. They develop design concepts and create architectural plans, sketches, and drawings that meet the client's needs while adhering to building codes and regulations.
•Project Planning
The architect contributes to the overall project planning process. He assists in establishing project goals, scope, and timelines on behalf of the client. He may also coordinate with other professionals, such as structural engineers, electrical engineers, and interior designers, to ensure that all aspects of the project are integrated seamlessly.
And also ensure the smooth running of the project by coordinating the client with the contractor.
•Building codes and environmental regulations
The architect also plays a role in ensuring that the building codes and environmental regulations governing construction are adhered to by the contractor.
The design and construction process should comply with the standards.
•Budget and Cost Management
The architect works closely with the client to develop and manage the project budget. They provide cost estimates for design options, materials, and construction, and monitor expenses to prevent cost overruns.
This enables the client to choose a design that suits his or her financial level hence enabling full availability of funds to run the project.
3. Civil engineer
A civil engineer is the professional in charge of managing and supervising the construction works of the project.
Major roles of the civil engineer in the project include;
•Project Planning
A civil engineer is involved in the initial planning stages of a construction project. They assess the feasibility of the project, considering factors such as site conditions, environmental impact, and regulatory requirements.
•Assembling material, equipment and labor for the project
It's the role of a civil engineer to assemble and organize material, equipment and labour which is sufficient and suitable for the project.
Hence civil engineers should be able to differentiate the skilled and unskilled labour suitable for construction.
•Design implementation and construction management
After submitting the designs by the architect to the contractor, the civil engineer has the role of implementing what has been designed on paper to the ground.
So the civil engineer should ensure that what has been designed is what's implemented and satisfies the needs of the client.
•Building standards and environmental regulations
A civil engineer is also in charge of ensuring that the building standards of the given area are respected.
Since construction is also referred to as an industry, environmental regulations should be respected to control the pollution of the environment
Pollution like noise and air pollution should be minimized to avoid inconveniencing the neighbors around the project.
•Quality Control and Assurance
A civil engineer is responsible for ensuring that the construction work meets the required quality standards. They conduct inspections, perform tests on materials, and supervise quality control procedures to identify and address any deficiencies.
•Ensuring safety and health at the construction site
The civil engineer with the help of the health and safety officer should ensure that the working environment is safe for the labourers on site.
He/she should also ensure that the labourers are always well equipped with personal protective equipment (PPEs) since accidents always lead to extra expenses hence straining the financial burden. The engineer should also ensure that the first aid box is well-equipped and always available on site.
•Risk Assessment and Mitigation
A civil engineer assesses potential risks associated with the construction project and develops strategies to mitigate them. He/she considers factors such as geotechnical conditions, natural hazards, and construction methods to minimize risks to workers, the public, and the project itself.
• Decision-making and problems solving
A civil engineer is also in charge of making decisions on-site and also solving problems that may arise during the project on-site.
4. Contractor
A contractor plays several important roles in a construction project. The person or company that was the best bidder wins the contract hence referred to as the contractor of the project. Here are some of the key responsibilities and roles typically undertaken by a contractor:
•Cost Management
The contractor monitors project costs and ensures that the construction project remains within the allocated budget. They track expenses, manage change orders, and provide regular cost updates to the project owner.
This also helps increase the profit margin of the contractor.
•Quality Control
The contractor is responsible for maintaining quality standards throughout the construction project. Through the implementation of quality control measures, conduct inspections, and ensure that the work meets the specifications outlined in the contract and relevant codes and regulations.
•Project Completion
The contractor oversees the final stages of the project, ensuring that all work is completed according to the specifications and requirements. The contractor coordinates inspections, obtains necessary approvals, and facilitates the project handover to the client.
Conclusion
For a project to be fully implemented, it requires a team of the above personnel who specialized in the different sectors of construction.
With proper coordination between all the above parties, a project is most likely to be highly successful and give value to the client's funds.
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