Delivering More Construction for Less

What Exactly is Agency Construction Management?

One of the biggest misconceptions in the construction market place is that Agency Construction Management (CMa) is a delivery method separating the project into 15 or more prime contractors. In fact, this is one of many delivery options under CMa, which is actually a professional service applicable to all delivery methods, as described in the Construction Management Association of America’s definition:

Agency Construction Management (CMa) is a fee-based service in which the construction manager is responsible exclusively to the owner and acts in the owner's interests at every stage of the project. The construction manager offers advice, uncolored by any conflicting interest. Comprehensive management of every stage of the project, beginning with the original concept and project definition, yields the greatest possible benefit to owners from Construction Management.

Key CMa Responsibilities. To provide the most value, a CMa should focus on the following responsibilities:

Objectivity. The CMa’s knowledge of and experience in various delivery methods and bid packaging is critical to offering the owner the most cost-effective approach. A CMa should always offer the owner delivery and packaging options.
Design Management. The best opportunity to save money, and reduce change orders and risk, occurs during design, so a CMa’s ability to manage design is key. If a CMa has done their job in design, the management of the construction phase should be greatly simplified.
Basis of Fees. The CMa’s goal should be to maximize the return on their services by focusing on the highest value-added tasks, and minimizing duplication of the tasks of the design and construction teams. A CMa’s fees should be based on the services and value delivered, not on the construction cost.

Summary: A CMa who is looking out for the owner should: objectively offer delivery and packaging options, be strong in both design and construction management, and base their fees on service and value only.

Upcoming Seminar/Webinar

The Owner’s Role in Delivering Construction Successfully, Regardless of the Delivery Method.

Doug Sitton, PE, LEED AP, will be presenting this seminar through the Illinois Association of School Business Officials on November 6, 2009, from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm. Click to register: http://www.iasbo.org/i4a/pages/Index.cfm?pageID=3698

Have Questions on How to Deliver More Construction for Less Money?

Contact Doug Sitton at: dsitton@sittoncg.com, 314/412-5677 or 618/406-0993. Sitton Construction Group, a professional construction management firm, is led by Doug Sitton, a 30-year veteran of the design and construction industry. Mr. Sitton is available to answer individual questions or speak to groups about improving the design and construction process.

Sitton Construction Group

Missouri: (314) 412-5677
Illinois: (618) 406-0993
Email: info@sittoncg.com

Upcoming Seminar / Webinar – November 6th

The Owner’s Role in Delivering Construction Successfully, Regardless of the Delivery Method.

Click here to register now.

Additional Sitton Info:

Providing Construction Management & Energy Consulting in St. Louis, MO, the St. Louis Metro East and throughout Missouri & Illinois.

Click here to download our brochure.