Republic of the Philippines

PALAWAN STATE UNIVERSITY

Tiniguiban Heights, Puerto Princesa City

College of Engineering, Architecture, and Technology

Department of Civil Engineering

CE 43 – CONSTRUCTION METHODS AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT

(Structural 4A, MTh: 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm)

Manuscript: Operations Management

Prepared by:

MANUBA, MARK JULIUS P.

REYES, RAQUEL U.

Group 9

Submitted to:

ENGR, MA. RASHIELA RESURRECCION

Course Instructor

Date of Performance:

December 4, 2023

Date of Submission:

December 4, 2023
Operations Management

Operations management in construction involves the efficient planning, coordination, and control
of construction processes to ensure the successful completion of a project. This field
encompasses various aspects, including project management, resource allocation, scheduling,
quality control, and safety management.Operations management ensures the successful
completion of projects. It plays a crucial role in optimizing resources, minimizing costs, and
enhancing overall project efficiency.

Key Elements related to Operations Management in Construction Methods and Project

Management:

1.Project Planning:
- Scope Definition: Clearly define the project scope, objectives, and deliverables. A clear
and well-defined project scope definition is the foundation of a successful project
outcome.
- Work Breakdown Structure (WBS):A Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is a hierarchical
decomposition of the total scope of work to be carried out by the parties involved in the
project. It organizes and defines the total scope of the project into a structured
framework, breaking it down into smaller, more manageable components. The WBS is a
fundamental tool in project management, helping to provide clarity on the project's scope,
facilitate planning, and aid in project communication.
2. Resource Allocation:
- Labor Management: a critical aspect of organizational operations that involves planning,
organizing, and optimizing the workforce to achieve strategic objectives efficiently.
Effective labor management ensures that an organization has the right people with the
right skills in the right place at the right time. Efficiently allocate skilled labor to tasks,
considering experience and expertise.
- Equipment Management: Ensure proper utilization and maintenance of construction
equipment.It is a critical aspect of operations, ensuring that equipment is effectively
employed to meet the project's goals while minimizing downtime and maximizing the
return on investment
3. Scheduling:
- Critical Path Method (CPM): Is a project management technique used to plan and
manage complex projects. It is particularly useful for projects with numerous
interdependent activities and tasks. CPM helps project managers identify the most critical
tasks and determine the shortest time in which a project can be completed. It mainly helps
identify the critical path to optimize project timelines.
- Gantt Charts: A popular project management tool that provides a visual representation of
a project schedule. It displays the start and finish dates of various elements of a project,
often displayed as bars on a timeline. Gantt charts are widely used for planning,
 scheduling, and tracking project progress. It uses visual representations as a means to
track project tasks and timelines.
- Scheduling: Involves creating a timeline that outlines when specific tasks or activities
will be performed to achieve project objectives. Effective scheduling ensures that
resources are allocated efficiently, dependencies are managed, and the project is
completed within the defined timeframe. It develops a realistic and achievable project
schedule, considering dependencies, critical paths, and resource constraints.

4. Communication:
- Stakeholder Communication: Maintaining open communication with stakeholders,
including clients, contractors, and regulatory authorities. Effective stakeholder
communication is a crucial aspect of project management, ensuring that all relevant
parties are informed, engaged, and aligned with project goals and progress. Stakeholders
include individuals or groups who have an interest in or are affected by the project, such
as project sponsors, team members, clients, customers, and regulatory authorities.
- Team Communication: Effective team communication is crucial for the success of any
project or collaborative effort. It involves the exchange of information, ideas, feedback,
and updates among team members involved in the project to ensure everyone is aligned,
informed, and working cohesively toward common goals. It facilitates effective
communication within the project team to ensure everyone is on the same page.

5. Project Initiation:
- Feasibility: Feasibility refers to the assessment of the practicality and viability of a
proposed project, system, or idea. It involves evaluating various factors to determine
whether the project is achievable, considering technical, economic, legal, operational, and
scheduling aspects. Feasibility studies are conducted to inform decision-makers about the
likelihood of success and potential challenges associated with a proposed initiative. It
assesses the feasibility of the project in terms of cost, time, and resources.
- Project Charter: A project charter is a formal document that provides a clear and concise
overview of a project at its initiation. It serves as a foundational document that outlines
the project's purpose, objectives, scope, stakeholders, timeline, and other essential
information. It develops a project charter outlining goals, scope, and stakeholders.

6. Design and Planning:

- Architectural and Engineering Design: Architectural and engineering design are critical
components of the project development process, particularly in construction and
infrastructure projects. Both fields involve creating detailed plans and specifications to
guide the construction or implementation of a project. It involves collaboration with
design professionals such as architects and civil engineers to create detailed plans of the
project.
 - Permitting: Is a crucial phase in the project development process, especially in
construction and other regulated industries. It involves obtaining the necessary approvals,
licenses, and permits from government authorities to proceed with a specific project. The
goal of permitting is to ensure that a project complies with applicable laws, regulations,
and safety standards. The specific permits required can vary depending on the type, size,
and location of the project. In summary permitting is the procurement of the necessary
permits, documents and approvals before commencing construction.

7. Execution:
- Construction Management: Involves the planning, coordination, and execution of a
construction project from conception to completion. It encompasses a wide range of
activities aimed at ensuring that a project is delivered on time, within budget, and
according to specified quality standards. Construction managers play a pivotal role in
overseeing various aspects of the construction process. It oversees day-to-day activities,
ensuring adherence to plans and schedules.
- Procurement: is the process of acquiring goods, services, or works from an external
source. It mainly sources and manages materials, equipment, and subcontractors.

8. Monitoring and Control:

- Performance Monitoring: It involves the systematic and continuous tracking,
measurement, and evaluation of various aspects of a project, process, or system to ensure
that it is meeting its objectives and performing as expected. This monitoring process
provides valuable insights that enable organizations to make informed decisions, identify
areas for improvement, and take corrective actions when necessary. It regularly assesses
project performance against key metrics.
- Change Management: Refers to the structured approach and set of processes used to
effectively transition individuals, teams, and organizations from their current state to a
desired future state. Change can take various forms, such as organizational restructuring,
process improvements, technology implementations, or cultural transformations. Change
management aims to minimize resistance, facilitate acceptance, and ensure that the
change is implemented successfully. It implements procedures for handling changes to
the project scope.

9. Health and Safety:

- Safety Protocols: Are a set of established procedures, guidelines, and measures designed
to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals in a specific environment, workplace,
or during particular activities. These protocols are crucial for preventing accidents,
injuries, and promoting a culture of safety. The specific safety protocols can vary
depending on the context, industry, and nature of the activities involved. It implements
and enforces safety measures to protect workers and adhere to regulations.
 - Emergency Preparedness: The process of planning, organizing, and training to effectively
respond to emergencies or disasters. The goal of emergency preparedness is to minimize
the impact of unforeseen events on people, property, and the environment. It involves the
development of strategies, protocols, and resources to respond promptly, efficiently, and
safely to emergencies. It develops plans for responding to accidents or unforeseen events.

10. Technology Integration:

- Construction Management Software: Is designed to streamline and optimize various
aspects of construction projects. It provides tools for project planning, scheduling,
collaboration, communication, document management, and other essential functions. The
software aims to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and enhance communication among
project stakeholders. It utilizes tools for scheduling, budgeting, and collaboration.Popular
construction management software options include Procore, Autodesk BIM 360,
PlanGrid, Buildertrend, and Viewpoint. When selecting construction management
software, it's important to consider the specific needs and scale of your projects, as well
as the preferences and workflows of your project team.
- Building Information Modeling (BIM):. Is a digital representation of the physical and
functional characteristics of a building or infrastructure. BIM is a collaborative and
information-rich process that involves creating and managing digital models of the
physical and functional aspects of a construction project. Implement BIM for enhanced
design and construction coordination

11. Environmental Sustainability:

- Compliance: Refers to the act of conforming to established rules, regulations, standards,
or guidelines. In various contexts, compliance is crucial to ensure that individuals,
organizations, or processes adhere to legal, ethical, and industry-specific requirements. It
involves actively following and meeting the stipulated criteria to prevent violations and
maintain a state of conformity. It ensures compliance with environmental regulations and
standards.
- Sustainable Practices: Are actions and approaches that aim to minimize negative
environmental, social, and economic impacts while promoting long-term ecological
balance and well-being. These practices are designed to address current needs without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Adopting
sustainable practices is crucial for mitigating climate change, protecting ecosystems, and
fostering social responsibility. That is why it is crucial to integrate environmentally
sustainable practices into the project design and construction.
12. Documentation and Record Keeping:
- Documentation: Refers to the process of creating, storing, and managing documents in
various formats to record and communicate information. Documentation is an essential
aspect of various fields and activities, including business, software development, project
management, healthcare, legal proceedings, and many others. Well-maintained
documentation helps ensure clarity, consistency, and traceability of information.
Maintaining accurate and up-to-date project documents is an important task in managing
operations.
- Records: Refers to any systematically organized information that is preserved for future
reference, evidence, or accountability. Records can take various forms, including
documents, data, or other types of information that provide evidence of activities,
transactions, decisions, or events. Proper record-keeping is essential for legal compliance,
historical documentation, and organizational transparency. Keeping detailed records and
documents of project progress, changes, and decisions contribute to a project's efficiency
and reliability. .

13. Closing:
- Handover: Refers to the process of transferring responsibility, control, or possession of
something from one person, team, or entity to another. Handovers are common in various
contexts, such as project management, healthcare, shifts in the workplace, and
construction. The goal of a handover is to ensure a smooth transition, maintain continuity,
and provide relevant information to the individual or group taking over. It ensures a
smooth transition from construction to operation.
- Post-Project Evaluation: Also known as a project post-mortem or project review, is a
systematic assessment conducted after the completion of a project. The primary goal of
this evaluation is to analyze the project's performance, identify lessons learned, and
gather insights that can be applied to future projects.

Different Types Of Management

1. Safety Management:
- Safety Protocols: Are sets of procedures and guidelines designed to ensure the well-being
and protection of individuals in various environments and situations. These protocols are
implemented to prevent accidents, injuries, and other potential hazards. The specific
safety protocols vary depending on the context, industry, and nature of the activities
involved. It develops and enforces safety protocols to protect workers and the public.
- Training: Is a systematic process that imparts knowledge, skills, and abilities to
individuals or groups to improve performance in a specific area. Teaches employees how
 to safely perform their tasks and handle emergencies. Provide safety training for project
personnel.
- Compliance: Ensure compliance with local, national, and international safety regulations.

2. Cost Management:
- Budgeting: Allocation of funds for a specific project, outlining costs and resources
needed. It develops a realistic project budget considering all costs, including labor,
materials, equipment, and overhead.
- Cost Tracking: Is the process of monitoring and recording expenses related to a project,
activity, business operation, or personal finances. It involves systematically documenting
and analyzing costs to ensure that they align with budgetary constraints and financial
goals. Effective cost tracking helps organizations maintain financial control, make
informed decisions, and identify areas for improvement. Monitoring and controlling
project costs throughout the construction process is an essential aspect of financial
management for projects.
- Cost Analysis: A process of evaluating and examining the various costs associated with a
project's financial activity. The goal of cost analysis is to understand, quantify, and
manage the costs involved, providing insights into cost structures, identifying areas for
cost reduction, and supporting informed decision-making. Conducting post-project cost
analysis to identify areas for improvement and cost savings provides a foundation for
strategic decision-making and helps organizations optimize their resources effectively.
- Cost Control: Monitor and control expenses throughout the construction process.

4. Risk Management:
- Identification: Identify potential risks related to project scope, schedule, cost, and quality.
- Assessment: Evaluate the impact and probability of identified risks.
- Mitigation: Develop strategies to mitigate or respond to risks effectively.

5. Resource Management:
- Labor: Allocate human resources effectively based on skills, expertise, and availability.
- Equipment: Manage the procurement, maintenance, and usage of construction equipment.
- Materials: Ensure timely and cost-effective procurement and delivery of construction
materials.

6 Quality Management:
- Quality Assurance (QA): Implement processes to ensure that construction meets specified
standards.
- Quality Control (QC): Monitor and inspect work to identify and rectify defects.
 - Quality Standards: Establish and enforce quality standards for materials and
workmanship.
- Inspection and Testing: Implement regular inspections and testing procedures to ensure
compliance with quality standards.
- Continuous Improvement: Analyze feedback and data to continuously improve processes
and outcomes.

7. Risk Management:
- Risk Assessment: Identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.
- Contingency Planning: Have contingency plans for unforeseen challenges.

Effective operations management in construction involves meticulous planning, resource

management, risk mitigation, and adherence to quality and safety standards throughout the
project life cycle. The integration of technology and continuous communication are crucial for
successful construction project outcomes. By effectively managing these aspects, operations
management in civil engineering contributes to the successful execution of projects, meeting
quality standards, staying within budget, and adhering to specified timelines.

Factors that can affect Operations Management:

There are several factors that can negatively affect operations management. These factors can
greatly impact efficiency, productivity, quality, and the overall project outcome.

1. Supply Chain Disruptions:

- Natural disasters, geopolitical events, or unexpected disruptions can disrupt the supply chain,
leading to delays in the delivery of raw materials or finished products.

2. Inefficient Technology Usage:

- Outdated or improperly implemented technology can hinder operations. Which can lead to
errors and delays in the project.

3. Quality Control Issues:

- Poor quality management can result in defects on the project, increased waste, and a need for
rework. This can lead to additional costs and damage to the company's reputation.
4. Human Resource Challenges:
- Inadequate training, low employee morale, or labor disputes can negatively impact
operations. A lack of skilled workers or poor workforce planning can also be detrimental to the
project.

5. Regulatory Compliance and Legal Issues:

- Failure to comply with industry regulations or legal requirements can result in fines, legal
battles, and disruptions to operations. Constant changes in regulations can also pose challenges.

6. Market Fluctuations:
- Fluctuations: can impact the availability and cost of resources such as labor materials and
equipment.
7. Lack of Flexibility and Agility:
- Rigidity in operational processes can hinder adaptability to changing circumstances. A lack of
flexibility in response to market dynamics or unforeseen events can negatively impact
operations.

8. Communication Breakdowns:
- Ineffective communication between different departments or levels of management can lead
to misunderstandings, delays, and errors in decision-making.

9. Financial Challenges:
- Economic uncertainties can affect the availability of financing for construction projects.
Difficulty in securing loans and investments can impact the ability to initiate or complete
projects.