Field Operations and Administrative Tools in Construction Management from edX

There are many costs associated with construction projects. Some costs are not directly associated with the construction itself but are important to quantify because they can be a significant factor in whether or not the project goes forward.

In this course we Illustrate how an estimate evolves over the life of the project. Some topics covered include:

Design. Differentiate the different estimate types used in small and large projects during planning and design.
Scheduling. In project construction management the schedule is most commonly used to track the project. By systematically analyzing each activity and its relationship to the activities that come before and after it, the construction manager can build a project on paper before committing resources to it.
- The uses of schedules and types of scheduling methods.
- How the schedule is a powerful construction management and communication tool.
Controls. Project control begins with the identification of the owner’s objectives and ends when those objectives have been met. Project control is a continuous cycle in which construction managers identify a goal, measure results, analyze and make adjustments, and report results. After a construction project has been completed the team responsible for carrying out the work usually split up and go to various other jobs.
Tools. The administrative tools used to manage, control, and document the construction management process. Jobsite administration requires diligence for clear procedures and understanding of the importance of recordkeeping.
Law. The legal rules that govern the design and construction management processes. Construction law is made up of specialized rules and regulations that govern how people behave in the context of a construction project. Many disputes are moving to alternative dispute resolution methods such as arbitration and mediation to solve construction management disputes. Important safety procedures are also reviewed.

What's inside

Learning objectives

The importance of the critical path and use of resource management
Project management techniques and best practices
Project managers role in business development, marketing and design development
Comparison of negotiated contracts vs. bid contracting procedures in the construction industry

The life cycle of a project and how team members interact with each other on a project team
The budgeting process and cost management controls including project costs in the development of a project
Stakeholders involved in the project plan and the need for risk management controls

The importance of the critical path and use of resource management
Project management techniques and best practices
Project managers role in business development, marketing and design development
Comparison of negotiated contracts vs. bid contracting procedures in the construction industry
The life cycle of a project and how team members interact with each other on a project team
The budgeting process and cost management controls including project costs in the development of a project
Stakeholders involved in the project plan and the need for risk management controls

Syllabus

● Week 1: Estimating project costs.

● Week 2: Project planning and scheduling.

● Week 3: Controlling project cost, time, and quality.

● Week 4: Project administration, construction law, and construction safety and health.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores costs associated with construction projects, beyond construction itself, which are important for project feasibility

Provides insights into the evolution of cost estimates throughout the project lifecycle

Covers essential project management techniques, including design, scheduling, and control

Addresses legal regulations and safety procedures relevant to construction management

Taught by instructors with expertise in construction management

May require students to have some background knowledge in construction management or related fields

Reviews summary

Construction management knowledge

According to students, this course is valuable for construction management. The recordings and practical knowledge are helpful for understanding field operations, time management, costs, quality control, and safety.

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Field Operations and Administrative Tools in Construction Management with these activities:

Review fundamental construction concepts

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Strengthen your foundation by refreshing your knowledge of key construction concepts before starting the course.

Browse courses on Construction Materials

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Review notes and textbooks from previous construction courses.
Participate in online forums or discussion groups related to construction.
Attend industry events or webinars to stay updated on the latest trends and technologies.

Review "Construction Project Management" by Harold Kerzner

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Gain a comprehensive understanding of construction project management principles and best practices from this authoritative textbook.

View Project Management: A Systems Approach to... on Amazon

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Read the assigned chapters and take notes on key concepts.
Summarize the main points and identify any areas that require further clarification.
Discuss the book's content with classmates or industry professionals.
Apply the knowledge gained from the book to practical project scenarios.

Explore online construction management software

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Familiarize yourself with the tools used in the industry by exploring and practicing with commonly used construction management software.

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Identify popular construction management software platforms.
Access free trial versions or online tutorials.
Experiment with different features and functions.
Create sample projects to practice using the software.

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Develop a construction project proposal

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Gain practical experience and demonstrate your understanding of project management by creating a proposal for a construction project.

Browse courses on Project Planning

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Define the project scope, objectives, and deliverables.
Research and gather information about the project site, budget, and timeline.
Develop a detailed plan for executing the project, including scheduling, cost estimates, and resource allocation.
Create a professional proposal document outlining your plan and justifying your approach.
Present your proposal to a mock audience or seek feedback from industry professionals.

Attend a construction industry conference

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Get firsthand insights and network with professionals in the field by attending an industry conference.

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Research and identify relevant conferences in your area.
Register and attend the conference.
Engage in presentations and workshops to gain knowledge and connect with experts.
Network with industry professionals and exchange ideas.
Follow up with contacts and continue the conversation after the conference.

Analyze construction project case studies

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Help reinforce your understanding of project management concepts and best practices by exploring real-world examples.

Browse courses on Construction Project Management

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Identify project case studies relevant to your interests and learning objectives.
Gather information about the project, including scope, budget, timeline, and key challenges.
Analyze the project's strengths and weaknesses using the principles of project management.
Identify lessons learned and areas for improvement.
Summarize your findings and share them with others.

Create a construction management plan

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Apply your understanding of construction project management by developing a comprehensive plan for a real or hypothetical project.

Browse courses on Construction Planning

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Define the project scope, objectives, and deliverables.
Develop a detailed plan for executing the project, including scheduling, cost estimates, and resource allocation.
Identify and mitigate potential risks.
Create a communication plan to ensure effective coordination among stakeholders.
Present your plan to a mock audience or seek feedback from industry professionals.

Participate in a construction management case competition

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Challenge yourself and demonstrate your skills by participating in a case competition that simulates real-world project scenarios.

Browse courses on Construction Management

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Research and identify relevant case competitions.
Form a team or collaborate with other students.
Analyze the case study and develop a comprehensive solution.
Prepare and present your solution to a panel of judges.

Career center

Learners who complete Field Operations and Administrative Tools in Construction Management will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Construction Manager

A Construction Manager is responsible for the overall planning, coordination, and execution of construction projects. They work closely with architects, engineers, and other construction professionals to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and practices of construction management, including project planning and scheduling, cost control, and quality control. It also covers the legal and ethical aspects of construction management, as well as the latest trends and technologies in the industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Manager

Project Manager

A Project Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and executing projects of all sizes and complexities. They work with stakeholders to define project goals and objectives, develop project plans, and manage project budgets and timelines. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the project management process, including project planning and scheduling, risk management, and stakeholder management. It also covers the latest project management tools and techniques.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

Estimator

An Estimator is responsible for developing cost estimates for construction projects. They work with architects, engineers, and other construction professionals to gather data and develop detailed estimates that include materials, labor, and equipment costs. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and practices of construction estimating, including quantity takeoff, cost analysis, and bid preparation. It also covers the latest estimating software and techniques.

See salaries and explore the career path for Estimator

Scheduler

A Scheduler is responsible for developing and maintaining project schedules. They work with project managers and other construction professionals to create detailed schedules that outline the sequence of activities, dependencies, and milestones for a project. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of construction scheduling, including critical path analysis, resource leveling, and schedule optimization. It also covers the latest scheduling software and techniques.

See salaries and explore the career path for Scheduler

Cost Engineer

A Cost Engineer is responsible for developing and managing cost control systems for construction projects. They work with project managers and other construction professionals to establish cost budgets, track project costs, and identify and mitigate cost overruns. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and practices of construction cost engineering, including cost accounting, cost analysis, and cost forecasting. It also covers the latest cost engineering software and techniques.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cost Engineer

Construction Inspector

A Construction Inspector is responsible for inspecting construction projects to ensure that they are being built in accordance with plans and specifications. They work with contractors and other construction professionals to identify and resolve construction defects and deficiencies. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of construction inspection, including building codes, inspection techniques, and quality control. It also covers the latest inspection software and techniques.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Inspector

Safety Manager

A Safety Manager is responsible for developing and implementing safety programs for construction projects. They work with contractors and other construction professionals to identify and mitigate safety hazards and ensure that all workers are following safety procedures. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of construction safety management, including safety planning, risk assessment, and accident investigation. It also covers the latest safety regulations and standards.

See salaries and explore the career path for Safety Manager

Quality Manager

A Quality Manager is responsible for developing and implementing quality control systems for construction projects. They work with contractors and other construction professionals to ensure that all work is performed to the required quality standards. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of construction quality management, including quality planning, quality control, and quality assurance. It also covers the latest quality management software and techniques.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Manager

Project Controls Engineer

A Project Controls Engineer is responsible for developing and managing project control systems for construction projects. They work with project managers and other construction professionals to track project progress, identify and mitigate risks, and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. This course provides a strong foundation in the principles and practices of project controls, including project planning and scheduling, cost control, and risk management.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Controls Engineer

Construction Lawyer

A Construction Lawyer represents clients in construction disputes and provides legal advice on construction matters. They work with contractors, architects, engineers, and other construction professionals to resolve disputes and negotiate contracts. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the legal and ethical aspects of construction, including contract law, tort law, and construction law. It also covers the latest legal trends and developments in the construction industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Lawyer

Construction Arbitrator

A Construction Arbitrator is a neutral third party who resolves disputes between contractors, architects, engineers, and other construction professionals. They work with the parties to the dispute to gather evidence, hear testimony, and make a final decision. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of construction arbitration, including arbitration law, arbitration procedure, and arbitration ethics. It also covers the latest arbitration trends and developments in the construction industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Arbitrator

Construction Mediator

A Construction Mediator is a neutral third party who helps disputing parties reach a consensus. They work with the parties to the dispute to facilitate communication, identify areas of agreement, and develop creative solutions. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of construction mediation, including mediation law, mediation procedure, and mediation ethics. It also covers the latest mediation trends and developments in the construction industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Mediator

Construction Contract Administrator

A Construction Contract Administrator is responsible for managing construction contracts. They work with contractors and other construction professionals to ensure that contracts are properly executed and administered. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of construction contract administration, including contract law, contract negotiation, and contract management. It also covers the latest contract administration trends and developments in the construction industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Contract Administrator

Construction Claims Manager

A Construction Claims Manager is responsible for managing construction claims. They work with contractors and other construction professionals to prepare, negotiate, and settle claims. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of construction claims management, including claims law, claims procedure, and claims negotiation. It also covers the latest claims trends and developments in the construction industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Claims Manager

Construction Consultant

A Construction Consultant provides advice and guidance to contractors, architects, engineers, and other construction professionals. They work with clients to identify and resolve construction problems, improve construction processes, and develop construction strategies. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of construction consulting, including construction management, construction law, and construction technology. It also covers the latest consulting trends and developments in the construction industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Construction Consultant