Polytechnic University of the Philippines

Open University System

Master of Science in Construction Management

Aquino, Nicole Marie R. Principles of Construction Management

2019-13382-MN-0 Dr. Guillermo O. Bernabe

Assignment No. 1

1. Define the meaning of the construction industry? How does this defer from your own definition?
Discuss and give details.

Construction industry is the sector of the nation that deals with building, maintaining, repairing and
developing real properties. Being a part of this branch, construction industry I believe is more than
just a driving force of the economy. It is a platform wherein the needs and wants of people are
transformed into a functioning tangible place. It is essential in elevating the quality of life of its users
by catering to Maslow’s basic need: Shelter.

Through construction, execution of human functions are made possible. For example, treating the
sick and prolonging life are made possible through construction of hospitals and wellness centers.
Preserving history and collecting archives of important events in time is being catered to by building
museums. And to cite a basic example, building houses which goes back to ancient civilization
played a critical role in human’s self-preservation. Therefore, the construction industry is more than
just physically building structures, it plays a key role in sustaining social and economic balance.

2. In what particular scope of construction industry services will construction project management be
needed? Explain how this is so.

Construction project management is needed during the execution phase of the project. The goal is
to accomplish specified tasks in a given time framework, when plans and specifications are
realized. During the design and planning stage, construction project management allows for the
successful implementation on site of all the approved contract documents. A god construction
project management entails meeting demands amidst uncertainties and risks of construction.

3. Describe some of your construction project management experience.

My father and I started practicing Design-Build Services just a few years ago. Being short-handed,
I prepare the contract documents and also manages the financial and construction aspects of the
business. I produce the working drawings and oversee its execution on site. By being exposed to
that kind of practice, I try to make sure that all construction are in sound quality and workmanship,
delivered on time and are within the range cost set by the owner.

It is a very challenging responsibility since many variables are unpredictable such as inflation rate,
weather conditions, site conditions and many others. Human life and financial aspects are always
at risk. Therefore, the most important task is to gain control on all those variables by breaking it to
smaller pieces and ensure that the project will be handed to the owner on the agreed terms.

4. Name at least three economic and three social contributions of the construction industry to the
economy? Define the importance of the construction project manager in increasing the
contributions of the construction industry to the economy.
 Construction industry contributes to the economic growth of the nation by generating job
opportunities for those skilled individuals and other needed work force, by creating revenues
through the income generated by the buildings and infrastructures, and by catalyzing transportation
and communication through the construction of infrastructures such as bridges, roads, transport
systems, etc.

Construction industry also affects the social aspects by providing a tangible structure tailor-fit to
house its user’s activities such as offices for businesses, airport for foreign and domestic travels,
government buildings to execute local affairs. It also represents fragments of history by being a
symbol of culture and heritage. It also provides an avenue for self-expression by projecting their
personalities through the interior and exterior design.

Construction Project Manager plays a vital role in carrying out all these contributions by overseeing
and monitoring the project from start to finish. It is his/her responsibility to meet the complex
demands of construction. Having said that, it is critical for the Construction Project Manager to
deliver the project on time and within the assigned budget to minimize losses incurred by delays.

5. What are some of the technical and managerial knowledge required of the construction project
managers to carry out their jobs? What are some of the skills needed by a construction project
manager in vertical and horizontal construction?
Every project is unique and requires certain set of skills and expertise from the Construction Project
Manager. He must possess appropriate technical know-how and ample experience and familiarity
in all scope of works to be able to manage the construction properly. He must study and analyze
the plans and specifications to effectively execute all of them on site. He must know how to delegate
tasks and manage the team. He should know how to train and develop his team to successfully do
the assigned task. He must manage his time properly and gain steady control of all site activities.
Also, he must possess an excellent communication skill to deliver instruction clearly and avoid
misinterpretations.

6. Name at least five differences between a construction project manager practicing in the Philippines
and one who works abroad (e.g., Asia). Explain why you think so.

There are many differences between working locally and internationally. First, international
standards are strictly observed abroad. They adhere to all the standard parameters used in
construction. Unlike here in the Philippines, we are not required to comply with the international
standards. As long as we have observed the local codes and regulations, it is good. Second, since
they follow the international standards, they also implement a stricter QA/QC protocols. They
ensure that before issuing certificate of completions, all work and installation are passed with all
their procedures. Third, their scopes are clearly defined. There is no overlapping of work.
Benchmarks and milestones are clearly established even before the start of construction.
Comparing it with our local situation, many construction project managers assumes the work of
other trade partners in order to meet the deadline. Fourth, language barrier plays a hindrance in
effective communication abroad. This causes delays in work or miscommunication. Unlike here,
we can say clearly what we mean since we have the same mother tongue. Lastly, salary is also a
major difference in practicing abroad versus locally. The compensation for construction project
managers are much more competitive compared with the offer locally since other countries has
stronger economy and higher exchange rate.