Architecture is not only the aesthetic component of building design but also the scientific process of translating designs into physical forms with practical, aesthetic, and monetary criteria.
Underneath every successful structure, there is a detailed project management framework that brings all the intricacies of architectural design together into one coherent physical result. Project management in architecture ensures that creative ideas are realized effectively, on time, and within budget constraints.
Architecture project management then combines technical knowledge with leadership and coordination expertise. Architectural project managers consider problems related to design, construction, and collaboration with stakeholders. They strive to align all the diverse elements of the project and guarantee that every decision taken is in the best interest of the project’s success.
Phases of Project Management in Architecture
The architectural process of project management is segmented into various distinct phases, each of paramount importance to the overall success of a project. The first is initiation, where feasibility studies are carried out to ascertain the viability of the proposed project. This involves defining the objectives of the project, the budget, and the scope in collaboration with the client.
Once the foundation is laid, the project moves to the planning stage. At this point, a more detailed and systematic approach is designed. This involves developing a realistic project schedule through tools like Gantt charts and work breakdown structures, which outline the activities required during each stage. Budgeting becomes a prime activity since the project manager needs to plan for resources while at the same time ensuring the project does not exceed the budgeted cost.
Execution and Monitoring
It involves the simultaneous tracking of the project against control. Progress is tracked against the project timeline, and changes are accommodated if needed. Issues of delay, unaccounted costs, or design conflicts are observed and resolved in a quick time. Effective monitoring of the project keeps it on course and allows completion within the set budget, thus reaching its conclusion smoothly.
At the same time, it has to monitor and control the project. It tracks progress in the actual project against the project timeline, and changes are made when necessary. Any issues of delay, excess cost, or design conflict are spotted quickly and cleared. In this way, monitoring will enable the project to be on track and within budget so that the project reaches its conclusion smoothly.
Closing and Evaluation
This brings the project to its final phase: closure. At this juncture, the project is complete, and the final product is delivered to the client. At this juncture, a final, comprehensive inspection is done to ensure that every aspect of the design has been duly implemented. The project manager will oversee that all contractual obligations have been completed and all remaining tasks are finalized.
Upon completion of the building and its handover, the project manager will conduct a project success review. This includes a review of the project against original objectives, both of budget, schedule, and quality. The lessons learned during the project are then documented for insights toward future endeavors. It is an essential step in the improvement of practices and continued development within the profession.
Sources:
- A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK ® Guide). (n.d.). Available at: https://www.cs.bilkent.edu.tr/~cagatay/cs413/PMBOK.pdf.
- Sousa, C., Tereso, A. and Fernandes, G. (2017). Improving Project Management Practices in Architecture & Design Offices. Advances in Intelligent Systems and Computing, pp.51–61. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-56538-5_6.
