Republic of the Philippines

POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES

College of Architecture and Build Environment
Department of Architecture

Course Code:
ARCH 30383
Subject:
PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE 3
Global practice for the 21st century

Professor:
AR. Maynard M. Muhi
Student:
Arce, Zendrick Merville B.

Date Submitted:
June 11, 2023
 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture and Build Environment
Department of Architecture

MID-TERM EXAMINATION
Second Semester 2022-2022

Direction: Essay Discuss the following items below in 1000 words.

1. Reasons why some construction project fails?

Construction projects are complex endeavours involving numerous

stakeholders, substantial investments, and intricate processes. However,
despite meticulous planning and execution, some projects encounter
failures that result in significant setbacks, delays, and financial losses.
This essay explores a range of factors that contribute to the failure of
construction projects. By understanding these reasons, stakeholders can
identify potential pitfalls and adopt proactive measures to mitigate risks,
enhance project success rates, and foster sustainable construction
practices.

 Inadequate Planning and Design

One of the primary causes of construction project failures lies in
inadequate planning and design. Poorly defined project objectives,
incomplete feasibility studies, and inadequate project scoping can lead
to miscommunication, unrealistic expectations, and subsequent project
delays. Inadequate consideration of site conditions, improper design
specifications, and the absence of contingency plans further exacerbate
the risk of failure.

 Insufficient Project Management

Effective project management is essential for successful construction
projects. Insufficient project management practices, such as inadequate
resource allocation, poor communication channels, and lack of
experienced project managers, can hinder progress and result in delays
and cost overruns. Inefficient scheduling, failure to monitor project
milestones, and improper risk management strategies contribute to
project failure.
 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture and Build Environment
Department of Architecture

 Financial Mismanagement
Financial mismanagement is a critical factor in construction project
failure. Insufficient budgeting, inaccurate cost estimation, and
inadequate financial controls can lead to cash flow problems, lack of
funds for project completion, and disputes with contractors and
suppliers. Failure to secure adequate financing, improper allocation of
funds, and unexpected market fluctuations can also contribute to project
failure.

 Inadequate Risk Assessment and Mitigation

Construction projects involve inherent risks that, if not properly assessed
and mitigated, can lead to project failure. Incomplete risk identification,
insufficient risk analysis, and failure to develop appropriate risk
response strategies can result in unforeseen issues and challenges
during project execution. Inadequate contingency planning, failure to
anticipate potential hazards, and insufficient risk transfer mechanisms
increase the likelihood of project failure.

 Poor Communication and Collaboration

Effective communication and collaboration among stakeholders are vital
for project success. Lack of clear communication channels, inadequate
coordination between project participants, and insufficient collaboration
among the design, engineering, and construction teams can lead to
errors, rework, and delays. Misunderstandings, conflicts, and insufficient
information sharing further hamper project progress and contribute to
failure.

 Inadequate Quality Control and Assurance

Failure to maintain adequate quality control and assurance measures can
have severe repercussions for construction projects. Inadequate
inspection and testing procedures, substandard materials, and
inadequate compliance with building codes and regulations can
compromise the safety and integrity of the project. Insufficient oversight,
poor workmanship, and lack of quality assurance protocols can lead to
structural failures, safety issues, and legal liabilities.
 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture and Build Environment
Department of Architecture

 External Factors and Environmental Challenges

External factors beyond the control of project stakeholders can
significantly impact construction projects. Adverse weather conditions,
geological uncertainties, regulatory changes, and political instability can

lead to project delays, cost escalation, and even abandonment.

Environmental challenges, such as ecological concerns, habitat
preservation, and land use restrictions, can impose additional
constraints and complications, contributing to project failures.

Construction projects can fail due to various factors that can be

categorized into several key areas:

Inadequate Planning and Design:

 Poorly defined project objectives and scope.

 Incomplete feasibility studies and inadequate project scoping.
 Insufficient consideration of site conditions and design specifications.
 Lack of contingency plans for unforeseen challenges.

Ineffective Project Management:

 Inadequate resource allocation and poor scheduling.

 Lack of experienced project managers and skilled personnel.
 Poor communication and coordination among project teams.
 Failure to monitor project milestones and proactively address issues.

Financial Mismanagement:

 Insufficient budgeting and inaccurate cost estimation.

 Inadequate financial controls and poor cash flow management.
 Failure to secure adequate financing and lack of financial contingency
plans.
 Fluctuations in market conditions and unexpected cost escalations.
 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture and Build Environment
Department of Architecture

Inadequate Risk Assessment and Mitigation:

 Incomplete risk identification and inadequate risk analysis.

 Failure to develop effective risk response strategies.
 Insufficient contingency planning and risk transfer mechanisms.
 Inadequate consideration of potential hazards and uncertainties.

Poor Communication and Collaboration:

 Lack of clear communication channels and ineffective information

sharing.
 Inadequate collaboration among project stakeholders.
 Misunderstandings and conflicts among team members.
 Insufficient involvement of key stakeholders and failure to address
their concerns.

Quality Control and Assurance Issues:

 Inadequate inspection and testing procedures.

 Substandard materials and poor workmanship.
 Failure to comply with building codes and regulations.
 Insufficient quality assurance protocols and oversight.

External Factors and Environmental Challenges:

 Adverse weather conditions and geological uncertainties.

 Regulatory changes and political instability.
 Environmental concerns and habitat preservation requirements.
 Changes in market conditions and economic downturns.

Changes in Project Scope:

 Inadequate management of changes and scope creep.

 Failure to assess the impact of design modifications.
 Insufficient control over change orders and variations.
 Lack of alignment between stakeholders regarding project goals.

Legal and Contractual Issues:

 Disputes and conflicts with contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers.

 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture and Build Environment
Department of Architecture

 Inadequate contract management and failure to address contractual

obligations.

 Delays in obtaining permits and approvals.

 Inadequate risk allocation and poorly drafted contracts.

Safety and Security Concerns:

 Failure to prioritize and maintain a safe working environment.

 Inadequate implementation of safety protocols and regulations.
 Security breaches and theft of equipment or materials.
 Accidents and injuries resulting from negligence or insufficient safety
measures.

It is important to note that these factors are often interconnected, and the
failure of a construction project can result from a combination of several
issues. By recognizing these potential pitfalls, stakeholders can take
proactive measures to mitigate risks, enhance project management
practices, and improve the likelihood of project success.

The failure of construction projects can arise from various interconnected

factors, including inadequate planning and design, insufficient project
management practices, financial mismanagement, inadequate risk
assessment, poor communication, inadequate quality control, and external
factors. Recognizing these reasons can help stakeholders identify potential
pitfalls and adopt proactive measures to improve project outcomes.
Emphasizing robust planning.
 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture and Build Environment
Department of Architecture

2. How to manage the project cost in the construction projects?

Managing project costs is a crucial aspect of construction projects. Cost

overruns can lead to financial strain, delays, and compromised project
quality. Effective cost management involves comprehensive planning,
accurate estimation, diligent monitoring, and proactive measures to control
expenses. This essay outlines key strategies and best practices for
managing project costs in construction projects. By implementing these
measures, stakeholders can enhance financial control, optimize resource
allocation, and improve project outcomes.

 Thorough Project Planning and Scope Definition

Successful cost management begins with thorough project planning and a
well-defined scope. A comprehensive understanding of project
requirements, objectives, and deliverables allows for accurate cost
estimation and resource allocation. Clear project scopes help in
identifying potential risks, dependencies, and cost drivers, enabling
proactive measures to mitigate risks and control expenses.

 Accurate Cost Estimation and Budgeting

Accurate cost estimation is crucial for effective cost management.
Detailed cost breakdowns, market research, and historical data analysis
assist in developing realistic budgets. Estimation techniques such as
bottom-up estimating, analogous estimating, and parametric estimating
help ensure accurate cost projections. Contingency reserves should be
included to address unforeseen expenses and risks. Regular budget
reviews and updates throughout the project lifecycle enhance cost
control and prevent cost overruns.

 Efficient Resource Management

Optimizing resource allocation is vital for managing project costs.
Careful planning and scheduling of labour, equipment, and materials
minimize waste and ensure efficient resource utilization. Effective
workforce management, including workforce planning, skill assessment,
and training programs, helps optimize productivity and reduce labour
costs. Implementing just-in-time inventory management, leveraging bulk
purchasing, and negotiating favourable supplier contracts assist in
controlling material costs.
 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture and Build Environment
Department of Architecture

 Robust Cost Tracking and Monitoring

Continuous cost tracking and monitoring are essential for effective cost
management. Implementing robust cost control systems and using project
management software enable real-time tracking of expenses, allowing
project managers to identify cost variances and take timely corrective
actions. Regular progress assessments, cost performance indicators, and
earned value analysis provide insights into cost trends and help identify
potential deviations from the budget.

 Effective Change Management

Construction projects often experience changes in scope, design
modifications, or unforeseen circumstances. Efficient change
management processes help mitigate the impact of these changes on
project costs. Thoroughly assessing change requests, considering their
implications on cost, schedule, and quality, and obtaining necessary
approvals before implementing changes ensure cost control. Effective
communication, documentation, and change order management protocols
minimize disputes, delays, and cost escalations.

 Proactive Risk Management

Proactive risk management plays a crucial role in managing project
costs. Conducting comprehensive risk assessments, identifying potential
risks, and developing contingency plans enable early identification and
mitigation of cost-related risks. Implementing risk response strategies,
such as risk transfer, risk avoidance, and risk mitigation, helps minimize
the financial impact of unforeseen events and uncertainties.

 Stakeholder Collaboration and Communication

Open and transparent communication with stakeholders is essential for
effective cost management. Regular project progress updates, cost
reports, and forecasting facilitate stakeholder understanding and buy-in.
Engaging stakeholders in value engineering exercises, seeking their
input, and encouraging their participation in cost-saving initiatives foster
a collaborative environment focused on cost optimization and financial
accountability.

 Continuous Improvement and Lessons Learned

Continuous improvement and learning from past experiences contribute
to effective cost management. Conducting post-project evaluations and
 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture and Build Environment
Department of Architecture

capturing lessons learned enable identification of areas for improvement

and best practices. Regularly updating cost management procedures,
leveraging industry advancements, and adopting innovative technologies
promote efficiency, cost savings, and enhanced project cost control.

Managing project costs in construction projects is crucial for ensuring

financial viability and successful project delivery. Here are key strategies
for effective cost management:

Accurate Cost Estimation and Budgeting:

 Conduct thorough cost estimation by analyzing project requirements,

materials, labor, and other resources.
 Consider historical data, industry benchmarks, and expert input for
accurate cost projections.
 Develop a detailed budget that includes contingencies for unexpected
expenses.

Value Engineering:

 Implement value engineering principles to identify cost-saving

opportunities without compromising project quality.
 Evaluate alternative materials, methods, and designs to optimize
project costs.
 Engage the project team to brainstorm and explore cost-effective
solutions.

Optimal Resource Allocation:

 Efficiently allocate resources, including labor, equipment, and

materials, to minimize waste and optimize productivity.
 Maintain accurate resource tracking systems to monitor usage and
identify areas for improvement.
 Explore options for outsourcing or subcontracting certain tasks to
reduce costs.

Procurement and Supplier Management:

 Conduct thorough market research to identify reliable suppliers and

negotiate favorable contracts.
 Implement strategic procurement practices, such as bulk purchasing
or long-term agreements, to achieve cost savings.
 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture and Build Environment
Department of Architecture

 Regularly review and assess supplier performance to ensure

competitive pricing and quality materials.

Effective Change Management:

 Implement a robust change management process to control scope

creep and minimize cost overruns.
 Evaluate the impact of proposed changes on project costs, timelines,
and resources before approval.
 Communicate changes clearly to all stakeholders and update the
budget and schedule accordingly.

Continuous Cost Monitoring and Reporting:

 Implement a comprehensive cost tracking system to monitor expenses

in real-time.
 Regularly analyze cost performance and compare actual costs against
the budget.
 Generate cost reports and share them with relevant stakeholders to
ensure transparency and accountability.

Risk Management:

 Identify potential risks that can impact project costs and develop risk
response strategies.
 Implement proactive measures to mitigate risks, such as obtaining
appropriate insurance coverage.
 Continuously assess and monitor risks throughout the project
lifecycle.

 Stakeholder Collaboration and Communication:

 Foster open communication channels with stakeholders to ensure
alignment on cost-related goals.
 Engage stakeholders in cost-related decision-making processes to
gain their support and buy-in.
 Seek input and ideas from the project team and stakeholders to
identify cost-saving opportunities.

Continuous Improvement and Lessons Learned:

 Conduct post-project evaluations to identify lessons learned and

areas for improvement.
 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture and Build Environment
Department of Architecture

 Document and share best practices to enhance cost management

practices in future projects.
 Continuously review and update cost management procedures based
on industry advancements and feedback.

By implementing these strategies, construction project stakeholders can

effectively manage project costs, prevent cost overruns, and optimize
financial outcomes. Successful cost management contributes to the overall
success of the project, ensuring it is completed within budgetary constraints
while meeting quality and schedule requirements.

Managing project costs in construction projects requires a systematic and

proactive approach. Thorough project planning, accurate cost estimation,
efficient resource management, robust cost tracking, effective change
management, proactive risk mitigation, stakeholder collaboration, and
continuous improvement are vital elements for successful cost management.
By implementing these strategies, construction project stakeholders can
optimize resource allocation, control expenses, prevent cost overruns, and
achieve project objectives within budgetary constraints.
 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture and Build Environment
Department of Architecture

3. What is the difference between a full-time supervising architect and

project construction management?

In the realm of construction projects, the roles of a full-time supervising

architect and a project construction manager are integral to successful
project delivery. While both positions involve overseeing and coordinating
construction activities, there are distinct differences in their
responsibilities, expertise, and focus. This essay aims to provide a
comprehensive understanding of the disparities between a full-time
supervising architect and a project construction manager. By exploring their
respective roles, skills, and areas of expertise, stakeholders can make
informed decisions about the most suitable professional for their specific
project needs.

Full-Time Supervising Architect

A full-time supervising architect plays a central role in the design and
construction process. Key characteristics and responsibilities associated
with this role include:

 Design and Planning:

A supervising architect is primarily involved in the design phase of the
project. They collaborate with clients to understand their vision, develop
design concepts, and translate them into architectural plans. They
consider factors such as aesthetics, functionality, building codes, and
regulatory compliance. Their expertise lies in creating innovative,
sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing designs that meet the project
requirements.

 Technical Expertise:
Supervising architects possess comprehensive technical knowledge and
skills in architecture, engineering principles, materials, and construction
methods. They are responsible for ensuring that the architectural design
is structurally sound, meets safety standards, and can be efficiently
implemented. They collaborate with other design professionals, such as
structural engineers and MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing)
consultants, to integrate various systems into the design.

 Contract Administration:
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POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture and Build Environment
Department of Architecture

Supervising architects oversee the contract administration process,

which involves coordinating with contractors, suppliers, and
subcontractors.

They review bids, negotiate contracts, and manage the contractor

selection process. Throughout the construction phase, they monitor the
progress, quality, and compliance of the work, ensuring adherence to the
design intent and specifications.

 Client Relationship Management:

Supervising architects serve as the primary point of contact for clients,
providing regular updates, addressing concerns, and ensuring client
satisfaction. They facilitate communication between the project team and
the client, managing expectations and ensuring the project aligns with
the client's vision and budget.

 Project Planning and Scheduling:

Construction managers are responsible for developing detailed project
plans and schedules, considering factors such as resource allocation,
sequencing of activities, and project milestones. They collaborate with
the project team to identify project objectives, establish timelines, and
define deliverables.

 Cost Estimation and Budgeting:

Construction managers play a vital role in cost estimation and budgeting.
They analyse project requirements, prepare cost estimates, and develop
budgets to ensure financial feasibility. Throughout the project, they
monitor costs, analyse cost performance, and implement strategies to
control expenses and prevent cost overruns.

 Resource Management:
Construction managers are responsible for efficient resource
management. They oversee the procurement and allocation of labor,
equipment, and materials. They coordinate with subcontractors,
suppliers, and vendors, ensuring timely delivery of resources and
materials to support project milestones.

 Risk Management:
 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture and Build Environment
Department of Architecture

Construction managers identify potential risks and develop risk

management strategies to mitigate them. They assess risks related to
safety, project delays, quality control, and legal compliance. They

implement safety protocols, monitor adherence to regulations, and

maintain insurance coverage to protect the project and stakeholders.

 Construction Coordination:
Construction managers facilitate coordination among various project
stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors, and
subcontractors. They ensure effective communication channels, resolve
conflicts, and foster collaborative relationships to promote smooth
project execution. They also oversee the construction site, ensuring
compliance with safety standards, quality control measures.

 Role of a Full-Time Supervising Architect

A full-time supervising architect is primarily responsible for the design
and technical aspects of a construction project. They possess extensive
knowledge of architectural principles, codes, and regulations, and their
primary focus is on the aesthetics, functionality, and integrity of the built
environment. They work closely with clients, translating their vision into
architectural plans, and overseeing the design process from concept
development to construction documentation. Throughout the construction
phase, the supervising architect ensures compliance with design
specifications, reviews shop drawings, and conducts regular site visits to
assess construction progress and quality. They also collaborate with
various stakeholders, including contractors, subcontractors, and
engineers, to address design-related issues and coordinate the
construction activities.

 Responsibilities of a Project Construction Manager

A project construction manager, on the other hand, is responsible for the
overall management and coordination of construction projects. Their role
encompasses a broader scope, including planning, scheduling,
budgeting, and ensuring timely project completion. Construction
managers possess a strong understanding of construction methodologies,
contracts, and project management principles. They work closely with
clients, architects, and other stakeholders to develop project plans,
define project objectives, and establish project timelines and budgets.
Construction managers are involved in procurement, subcontractor
 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture and Build Environment
Department of Architecture

selection, and contract management. They oversee the construction

process, ensuring adherence

to safety standards, managing resources, and monitoring progress. They

also facilitate effective communication among project participants,
resolve.

conflicts, and manage change orders and claims to keep the project on
track.

 Expertise and Skill Sets

The expertise and skill sets required for a full-time supervising architect
and a project construction manager differ significantly. A full-time
supervising architect possesses in-depth knowledge of architectural
design principles, spatial planning, building codes, and construction
materials. They have strong artistic and visual design abilities,
proficiency in architectural software, and expertise in detailing and
specifications. Effective communication, creativity, and problem-solving
skills are also essential for supervising architects.

 Project Phases and Time Allocation

The involvement of a full-time supervising architect and a project
construction manager varies throughout the project lifecycle. A
supervising architect's primary engagement occurs during the design and
pre-construction phases. They dedicate significant time to
conceptualizing, developing, and refining architectural plans, conducting
feasibility studies, and obtaining necessary approvals. During the
construction phase, their presence is focused on periodic site visits,
reviewing shop drawings, and ensuring adherence to design intent. In
contrast, a project construction manager is involved from project
initiation until completion. They are responsible for project planning,
procurement, construction oversight, quality control, and managing
project risks. Construction managers allocate their time to activities such
as budget management, contract administration.

In contrast, a project construction manager is involved from project

initiation until completion. They are responsible for project planning,
 Republic of the Philippines
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
College of Architecture and Build Environment
Department of Architecture

procurement, construction oversight, quality control, and managing project

risks. Construction managers allocate their time to activities such as budget
management, contract administration, progress monitoring, coordinating
trades, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. They are actively
engaged in on-site supervision and managing the day-to-day operations to
ensure the successful execution of the project.

 Collaboration and Communication

Collaboration and communication play significant roles in both the
supervising architect and construction manager's responsibilities. A full-
time supervising architect collaborates closely with clients, translating
their vision into design solutions, and coordinates with various
stakeholders to ensure design intent is maintained during construction.
They facilitate communication among the design team, contractors, and
subcontractors to address design-related issues and provide
clarifications.

In comparison, project construction managers are responsible for

fostering effective communication among all project participants. They
serve as a central point of contact, ensuring that project information is
disseminated efficiently, coordinating meetings, and resolving conflicts.
Construction managers facilitate collaboration among architects,
engineers, subcontractors, and other project stakeholders to maintain
project progress, address challenges, and implement timely decisions.

While a full-time supervising architect and a project construction manager

both contribute to the success of construction projects, their roles,
expertise, and responsibilities differ significantly. A supervising architect's
focus lies in the design and technical aspects of the project, ensuring
compliance with architectural standards. On the other hand, a project
construction manager oversees the overall project management, including
planning, coordination, and execution, with a focus on time, cost, and
quality control. By understanding these distinctions, stakeholders can make
informed decisions when selecting the most appropriate professional for
their construction project requirements.