Study on project management applications in the local building construction industry

Abstract

The traditional method of Project delivery system with the Architect as team leader, responsible for both design and management of the project with the contractor appointed on the basis of a competitive tender, still predominates in Sri Lanka. However, in recent years variations of this method have emerged and we have seen almost the entire spectrum of alternative procurement systems including Executive Project Management, Non executive Project Management, construction management, etc. The objective of this study was to find out the actual practices being used in the field of Project Management in Sri Lanka, what services are offered and by whom, how effective they are and recommendations to improve the existing practices and to increase Project Managers participation. The study found out that, most of the problems could have overcome by educating the clients. The other significant finding was the requirement of a form of contract defining the responsibilities and accountability of a Project Manager. The report goes on to state that leadership qualities are more important than the technical qualifications of a Project Manager to keep the project participants as a team. Further it recommends that Project Management should be recognized as a separate discipline with an institute.' It also shows the need for professional bodies and government to encourage and recognize the functions of project management.