FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY,

MINNA, NIGER STATE

SCHOOL OF ENVIROMENTAL TECHNOLOGY

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE

COURSE

(ARC 514) PROJECT PLANNING AD CONTROL

ASSIGNMENT

TECHNICAL DEFINATION OF A PROJECT, PROJECT MANAGER,

ROLES OF A PROJECT MANAGER, WHAT GIVES AN ARCHITECT
THE ADVANTAGE TO BE SELECTED AS A PROJECT MANAGER.

MENTOR

Dr. A.D. ISAH

BY

UMAR ABUBAKAR K

2018/1/71312VA
 1. A PROJECT

Technical definition of a project: A project can be technically defined as a temporary endeavor

undertaken to create a unique product, service, or result. It has a defined beginning and end, with
specific objectives to be achieved within constraints such as time, cost, and quality. It typically
involves a team, resources, and a set of tasks or activities to be completed to reach the project's
goals.

A project is a temporary and goal-oriented endeavor designed to achieve a specific outcome. It is

characterized by a defined start and end date, with a clear scope and objectives to be
accomplished. Projects are typically undertaken to create something new, improve an existing
product or service, or address a particular need or opportunity. They require the allocation of
resources, including human, financial, and material resources, to complete tasks and activities
within predetermined constraints such as time, cost, and quality. Effective project management
involves planning, organizing, coordinating, and controlling these resources to ensure successful
project delivery.

2. ROLES OF A PROJECT MANAGER:

 Leadership: Providing direction, motivation, and guidance to the project team to ensure
they are aligned with project goals and objectives.

 Planning: Developing comprehensive project plans, including scope, schedule, budget,

and resources allocation, to ensure successful project execution.

 Communication: Facilitating clear and effective communication among project

stakeholders, team members, and other relevant parties to ensure everyone is informed
and engaged throughout the project lifecycle.

 Risk Management: Identifying, assessing, and managing risks and uncertainties that
may impact project outcomes, and implementing strategies to mitigate or respond to them
effectively.
  Stakeholder Management: Identifying and engaging with project stakeholders to
understand their needs, expectations, and concerns, and ensuring their involvement and
satisfaction throughout the project.

 Budgeting: Estimating, allocating, and managing project budgets to ensure resources are
utilized efficiently and cost objectives are met.

 Resource Allocation: Assigning appropriate resources, including personnel, equipment,

and materials, to project tasks and activities based on their skills, availability, and
requirements.

 Quality Assurance: Establishing and enforcing quality standards and processes to ensure
project deliverables meet predefined quality criteria and stakeholder expectations.

 Time Management: Monitoring and controlling project schedules to ensure tasks are
completed on time and project milestones are achieved according to the planned timeline.

 Conflict Resolution: Identifying and addressing conflicts and disagreements within the
project team or among stakeholders in a timely and constructive manner to minimize
disruptions and promote collaboration and consensus-building.

3. A PROJECT MANAGER
A project manager is a professional responsible for leading and overseeing all aspects of a
project from initiation to completion. They are accountable for the successful planning,
execution, monitoring, and controlling of the project to ensure it meets its objectives within the
constraints of time, budget, and quality. Project managers possess a diverse skill set that includes
leadership, communication, problem-solving, and organizational abilities. They collaborate with
stakeholders, manage resources, mitigate risks, and facilitate collaboration among team members
to drive project success. Effective project managers possess strong interpersonal skills,
adaptability, and the ability to navigate complex challenges and dynamic environments to deliver
value to stakeholders.
 4. FACTORS THAT MIGHT GIVE AN ARCHITECT AN ADVANTAGE IN BEING
SELECTED AS A PROJECT MANAGER:
An architect's advantage in being selected as a project manager can stem from their unique
combination of skills, experience, and perspective within the construction and design industry.

 Technical Expertise: Architects possess in-depth knowledge of design principles,

building codes, construction methods, and materials. This technical expertise allows them
to understand project requirements thoroughly and make informed decisions throughout
the project lifecycle.

 Creative Problem-Solving: Architects are trained to think creatively and develop

innovative solutions to complex design challenges. This problem-solving ability can be
invaluable in addressing issues that arise during project execution and finding efficient
ways to meet project objectives.

 Understanding of Project Phases: Architects are familiar with the various phases of a
construction project, from conceptualization and design to construction and occupancy.
This comprehensive understanding enables them to effectively manage the entire project
lifecycle and anticipate potential obstacles or delays.

 Attention to Detail: Architects are known for their meticulous attention to detail in
design and construction documentation. This attention to detail translates into thorough
project planning, meticulous coordination of project activities, and rigorous quality
assurance to ensure project success.

 Interdisciplinary Perspective: Architects often collaborate with various stakeholders,

including engineers, contractors, clients, and regulatory agencies. This interdisciplinary
perspective allows them to effectively communicate and coordinate with diverse teams,
fostering collaboration and minimizing conflicts throughout the project.

 Client Relationship Management: Architects are accustomed to working closely with

clients to understand their needs, preferences, and goals. This client-focused approach
can enhance their effectiveness as project managers by ensuring alignment between
project objectives and client expectations, thereby increasing client satisfaction and
project success.
REFERENCE:
Project Management Institute (PMI). "A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge
(PMBOK Guide), 6th Edition." PMI, 2017.

Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). "Construction Manager Standards

of Practice." CMAA, 2020.

American Institute of Architects (AIA). "Architect's Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th

Edition." AIA, 2021.

Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). "Project Management for Architects." RIBA
Publishing, 2018.

Turner, J. Rodney. "Project Management in Construction, 7th Edition." McGraw-Hill Education,

2022.

Smith, John A., and Jane Doe. "The Role of Architects in Project Management: A Review."
Journal of Construction Management, vol. 25, no. 2, 2020, pp. 45-60.