When are project managers appointed in addition to architects?
Answered by Stephen Hall, 27 March 2012 - 20:30
Natacha
It's best to consider this from a resource perspective: most PM's would find it pretty difficult achieve anything effective with less than a day week on a project spread across the lifecycle of the project; and this will determine the starting point for a fee calculation. In reality, most construction projects aren't really viable for separate consultant project management input unless the value is £500k (net) or more, but there are exceptions where the complexity of the project warrants an above average fee being invested in specific PM support.
Of course this asks the question 'who performs the PM function when there is no dedicate PM?' Although architects often take a managerial role in smaller projects, I think it's debatable whether they act as PMs and apply the gamut of skills that a dedicated would use.
Answered by Natacha Redon, 6 April 2012 - 18:59
Stephen,
thank you for your response, it is interesting having a threshold.
I actually do think that architects do not have the depth of skills a dedicated project manager has in this field. As it is understandable for the client not to pay for a separate project manager on top of the architect, maybe it would be worthwhile for architect practices to employ a project manager for their own projects, transferring the architect's PM tasks to them for the same fee. That way the clients would pay the same, architecture practices would charge the same time of fee, only split between the different disciplines, and projects would gain in quality.
Answered by John O'Reilly, 12 April 2012 - 14:37
Hi Natasha
You will usually find that PM's are appointed on larger scale projects to act on behalf of the client and to safeguard their interests. He / she should be involved in the appointment of the design team and advise the client on all matters and obtain all approvals to change brief / scope / budget / timeframe etc etc. I believe that as projects have become more and more complex (CDM, Fire Safety, Environmental obligations, Funding matters, stakeholder management etc) it has become very necessary to have someone dedicated to this role. On smaller projects architects act as PM, however divorcing these responsibilities from the architects responsibilities quite often ensures they get the attention they deserve. I have worked with architects who were excellent project managers also - as it is a fundamental part of our training.
In some cases the client will still appoint the Architect as lead consultant and contract administrator and will have the Project Manager appointed after to act as on his behalf. Hope this helps thanks
JOHN
