Construction project management is an integrated activity which requires professionals to have an understanding of the whole building process and to think across the many interconnected functions of a building. In light of the exponentially growing need for specialists in construction project management to lead the design and construction stage effectively, this textbook has been designed for those who are able to manage both design and construction stages of complex buildings. Construction professionals will need to understand how and when to intervene as decision makers who can change the consequences of building activities. In addition, construction industry practitioners need to be better equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to rethink design processes using value management principles with a huge focus on sustainable design as the vehicle during design and construction stage. The textbook also provides a unique overview and insight into the design, management, and operation of construction projects. 

The knowledge and skills required to navigate a construction project from conception to completion are the focus of this textbook. A project statement of expectations when properly prepared is a tool which can be effectively used to express exactly what performance or standard is to be expected. At the inception of the project, it is important to look at the project in total to ensure that undue emphasis is not given to minutia that, in the broad scheme of things, is of little consequence. Client briefing is strongly linked to project appraisal. Project appraisal, a process of evaluating the alternative design options against predetermined criteria in order to arrive at an optimal solution, takes place throughout the design process. The final appraisal is related to the construction methods which could be applied. It includes the environmental, economic, and social context in which the project takes place.

The right type of contract is as important as the right project manager. The contracts or orders should be simple but tailored to the other controls operating for the project. The contracts should be as standard as possible. A properly prepared and executed set of contract documents is a safeguard against future legal problems and potential loss by all parties. While strategic planning of construction projects deals with overall project objectives, operational planning allows a more detailed look at the project's resource requirements. Construction planning outlines the construction processes through time and defines resources required to complete the project on schedule. The contractor's ability to eliminate defects and to repair any defects during the construction process will ensure that the client is satisfied with completed works and that maintenance after completion is minimized. Thus, the contract may include some form of protection related to performance obligations such as retentions, performance bonds/guarantees, liability insurance and inherent defects insurance. At the same time, contractors and subcontractors are interested in payment protection against insolvency of clients. All these concerns are normally addressed in the building contract and will be considered at the project completion.