Project Management and Quality in Construction
Expert-defined terms from the Postgraduate Certificate in Quality Management in Construction course at London School of Planning and Management. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
AASHTO stands for American Association of State Highway and Transportatio… #
Related terms include ASTM, ASCE, and FHWA. AASHTO provides guidelines and specifications for construction materials, design, and testing, which are widely adopted in the construction industry. For example, AASHTO specifications for asphalt and concrete are used to ensure that roads and highways are built to last and can withstand heavy traffic.
ACI stands for American Concrete Institute, which is a professional</i… #
Related terms include PCA, NRMCA, and ICRI. ACI provides guidelines and standards for concrete design, testing, and construction, and offers certification programs for concrete professionals. For instance, ACI certification is required for many concrete inspectors and technicians.
Activity #
Based Costing is a costing method that assigns costs to specific activities or tasks in a construction project. Related terms include ABC, cost accounting, and job-order costing. Activity-Based Costing is used to identify areas where costs can be reduced or optimized, and to provide more accurate cost estimates. For example, a construction company might use Activity-Based Costing to determine the cost of excavating a site, including the cost of labor, equipment, and materials.
AHJ stands for Authority Having Jurisdiction, which refers to the local o… #
Related terms include building codes, zoning laws, and permits. The AHJ is responsible for ensuring that construction projects comply with local and national regulations, and may conduct inspections and issue fines or penalties for noncompliance. For instance, the AHJ might require a construction company to obtain a permit before starting work on a project.
ASCE stands for American Society of Civil Engineers, which is a profes… #
Related terms include AASHTO, ASTM, and NSPE. ASCE provides guidelines and standards for civil engineering design and construction, and offers certification programs for civil engineers. For example, ASCE certification is required for many civil engineers who work on construction projects.
ASME stands for American Society of Mechanical Engineers, which is a p… #
Related terms include ANSI, ASTM, and IEEE. ASME provides guidelines and standards for mechanical engineering design and construction, and offers certification programs for mechanical engineers. For instance, ASME certification is required for many mechanical engineers who work on construction projects.
ASTM stands for American Society for Testing and Materials, which is a <i… #
Related terms include AASHTO, ASCE, and ANSI. ASTM provides guidelines and specifications for testing and evaluating construction materials, which are widely adopted in the construction industry. For example, ASTM standards for steel and concrete are used to ensure that these materials meet minimum requirements for strength and durability.
Backward Pass is a scheduling technique used in construction project mana… #
Related terms include forward pass, critical path method, and project scheduling. The backward pass is used to identify the critical path of a project, which is the sequence of activities that determines the minimum duration required to complete the project. For instance, a construction company might use the backward pass to determine the latest possible start date for a particular activity, such as excavating a site.
Baseline Budget is the approved budget for a construction project, which… #
Related terms include cost variance, budget at completion, and earned value management. The baseline budget is established at the outset of a project, and is used to track and control costs throughout the project lifecycle. For example, a construction company might establish a baseline budget of $1 million for a project, and then track actual costs against this budget to identify any cost variances.
Benchmarking is the process of comparing a construction company's perform… #
Related terms include best practices, key performance indicators, and continuous improvement. Benchmarking is used to identify opportunities for improvement and to develop strategies for implementing changes. For instance, a construction company might benchmark its safety record against that of other companies in the industry, and then develop a plan to improve its safety performance.
Bid Bond is a type of surety bond that guarantees a contractor's bid on a… #
Related terms include performance bond, payment bond, and surety bond. The bid bond is required by the project owner to ensure that the contractor will enter into a contract and begin work on the project if awarded the contract. For example, a contractor might be required to post a bid bond of 10% of the total contract value.
BOQ stands for Bills of Quantities, which is a document that lists… #
Related terms include specification, tender document, and contract document. The BOQ is used to prepare bids and to track progress during the project. For instance, a contractor might use the BOQ to determine the quantity of concrete required for a project, and then order the necessary materials.
Brainstorming is a technique used in construction project management to g… #
Related terms include mind mapping, SWOT analysis, and decision-making. Brainstorming is used to encourage creative thinking and to identify potential solutions to complex problems. For example, a construction company might use brainstorming to identify potential solutions to a delay in the project schedule.
Budget at Completion is the total budget for a construction project, whic… #
Related terms include baseline budget, cost variance, and earned value management. The budget at completion is used to track and control costs throughout the project lifecycle, and to identify any cost variances. For instance, a construction company might establish a budget at completion of $1.5 Million for a project, and then track actual costs against this budget.
Building Code is a set of regulations that govern the design and construc… #
Related terms include zoning laws, permits, and inspections. Building codes are used to ensure that buildings are safe and accessible, and that they meet minimum standards for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. For example, a building code might require that all new buildings be designed and constructed to meet minimum standards for energy efficiency.
Business Case is a document that outlines the rationale and justification… #
Related terms include feasibility study, cost-benefit analysis, and project justification. The business case is used to secure funding and support for a project, and to ensure that the project is aligned with the organization's strategic objectives. For instance, a construction company might prepare a business case to justify the construction of a new office building, including the costs and benefits of the project.
Change Management is the process of identifying, assessing, and implement… #
Related terms include change order, scope change, and project control. Change management is used to ensure that changes are properly documented and approved, and that they do not impact the project schedule or budget. For example, a construction company might use change management to assess the impact of a change to the project scope, and then develop a plan to implement the change.
Change Order is a document that outlines the changes to a construction pr… #
Related terms include change management, scope change, and project control. The change order is used to document and approve changes to the project, and to ensure that the changes are properly implemented. For instance, a construction company might issue a change order to document a change to the project scope, including the impact on the schedule and budget.
Claim is a request for payment or compensation made by a contractor to th… #
Related terms include dispute resolution, arbitration, and litigation. Claims are used to resolve disputes and to secure payment or compensation for work performed or expenses incurred. For example, a contractor might submit a claim to the project owner for delays caused by weather conditions.
Commissioning is the process of testing and verifying that a construction… #
Related terms include testing, inspection, and validation. Commissioning is used to ensure that the project is safe and functional, and that it meets the needs and expectations of the project owner. For instance, a construction company might conduct commissioning tests to verify that a new building's mechanical and electrical systems are functioning properly.
Communication Plan is a document that outlines the communication strategy… #
Related terms include stakeholder management, communication matrix, and project control. The communication plan is used to ensure that all stakeholders are informed and engaged throughout the project lifecycle, and that communication is effective and efficient. For example, a construction company might develop a communication plan to ensure that all stakeholders are informed of project progress and any changes to the project schedule or scope.
Constraint is a limitation or restriction that affects a construct… #
Related terms include constraint management, resource allocation, and project control. Constraints are used to identify and manage limitations and restrictions that may impact the project, and to develop strategies for mitigating or overcoming them. For instance, a construction company might identify a constraint such as a limited budget, and then develop a plan to manage costs and stay within the budget.
Construction Management is a professional service that involves overseein… #
Related terms include project management, construction supervision, and building management. Construction management is used to ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. For example, a construction management company might be hired to oversee the construction of a new office building, including the planning, design, and construction phases.
Contingency Plan is a document that outlines the plans and procedures for… #
Related terms include risk management, emergency planning, and business continuity planning. The contingency plan is used to identify and mitigate risks, and to develop strategies for responding to and managing crises or emergencies. For instance, a construction company might develop a contingency plan to respond to a natural disaster, such as a hurricane or earthquake.
Contract Administration is the process of managing and administering the… #
Related terms include contract management, contract law, and dispute resolution. Contract administration is used to ensure that the contract is properly managed and administered, and that the rights and obligations of the parties are protected. For example, a construction company might have a contract administrator who is responsible for managing the contract and resolving any disputes that may arise.
Contractor is a company or individual that is responsible for perf… #
Related terms include subcontractor, supplier, and vendor. The contractor is responsible for completing the work to the required quality standards, and for managing the construction process, including the scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation. For instance, a contractor might be hired to build a new house, including the excavation, foundation, and construction phases.
Cost Accounting is the process of tracking and managing the costs associa… #
Related terms include cost control, cost estimation, and cost management. Cost accounting is used to ensure that the project is completed within budget, and that the costs are properly managed and controlled. For example, a construction company might use cost accounting to track the costs of materials, labor, and equipment, and to identify areas where costs can be reduced or optimized.
Cost #
Benefit Analysis is a technique used to evaluate the costs and benefits of a construction project, in order to determine whether the project is viable and worthwhile. Related terms include feasibility study, business case, and project justification. The cost-benefit analysis is used to identify the costs and benefits of the project, and to determine whether the benefits outweigh the costs. For instance, a construction company might conduct a cost-benefit analysis to evaluate the viability of a new project, including the costs and benefits of the project.
CPM stands for Critical Path Method, which is a scheduling techniq… #
Related terms include PERT, Gantt chart, and project scheduling. The critical path method is used to identify the critical activities and to develop a schedule that ensures the project is completed on time. For example, a construction company might use the critical path method to determine the critical path of a project, and then develop a schedule that ensures the project is completed on time.
Critical Path is the sequence of activities in a construction project tha… #
Related terms include critical path method, PERT, and project scheduling. The critical path is used to identify the critical activities and to develop a schedule that ensures the project is completed on time. For instance, a construction company might identify the critical path of a project, and then develop a schedule that ensures the project is completed on time.
Dashboard is a visual display of key performance indicators and metrics f… #
Related terms include metrics, KPIs, and project control. The dashboard is used to provide a snapshot of the project's performance, and to identify areas where improvement is needed. For example, a construction company might use a dashboard to track the project's schedule, budget, and quality performance, and to identify areas where improvement is needed.
Decision Tree is a diagram that shows the possible outcomes of a decision… #
Related terms include decision-making, risk management, and problem-solving. The decision tree is used to evaluate the possible outcomes of a decision, and to identify the best course of action. For instance, a construction company might use a decision tree to evaluate the possible outcomes of a decision to change the project scope, and to identify the best course of action.
Delphi Technique is a method used in construction project management to g… #
Related terms include expert judgment, forecasting, and decision-making. The Delphi technique is used to gather and analyze expert opinions, and to identify the most likely outcomes. For example, a construction company might use the Delphi technique to gather and analyze expert opinions on the likely outcome of a project, and to make informed decisions.
Design #
Build is a delivery method for construction projects, where the designer and builder are the same entity, and the project is delivered as a single package. Related terms include design-bid-build, construction management, and project delivery. The design-build method is used to streamline the construction process, and to ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget. For instance, a construction company might use the design-build method to deliver a project, including the design and construction phases.
Design #
Bid-Build is a delivery method for construction projects, where the designer and builder are separate entities, and the project is delivered through a competitive bidding process. Related terms include design-build, construction management, and project delivery. The design-bid-build method is used to ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget, and that the best value is obtained through a competitive bidding process. For example, a construction company might use the design-bid-build method to deliver a project, including the design and construction phases.
Earned Value Management is a method used in construction project manageme… #
Related terms include earned value, cost variance, and schedule variance. Earned value management is used to track and control costs, and to identify areas where improvement is needed. For instance, a construction company might use earned value management to track the progress and performance of a project, and to identify areas where improvement is needed.
EVM stands for Earned Value Management, which is a method used in… #
EVM is used to track and control costs, and to identify areas where improvement is needed. For example, a construction company might use EVM to track the progress and performance of a project, and to identify areas where improvement is needed.
Fast Tracking is a technique used in construction project management to a… #
Related terms include crashing, schedule compression, and project acceleration. Fast tracking is used to reduce the project duration, and to complete the project earlier. For instance, a construction company might use fast tracking to accelerate the project schedule, and to complete the project earlier.
Feasibility Study is a document that outlines the viability and feasibili… #
Related terms include business case, cost-benefit analysis, and project justification. The feasibility study is used to evaluate the viability of the project, and to determine whether the project is worthwhile. For example, a construction company might conduct a feasibility study to evaluate the viability of a new project, including the costs, benefits, and risks.
Finish #
to-Start is a relationship between two activities in a construction project, where the second activity cannot start until the first activity is completed. Related terms include start-to-finish, start-to-start, and finish-to-finish. The finish-to-start relationship is used to sequence activities, and to ensure that the project is completed on time. For instance, a construction company might use the finish-to-start relationship to sequence activities, such as excavating a site and then laying the foundation.
Float is the amount of time that an activity in a construction project ca… #
Related terms include slack, buffer, and contingency. The float is used to identify the amount of time that an activity can be delayed, and to develop a schedule that ensures the project is completed on time. For example, a construction company might identify the float for an activity, and then develop a schedule that ensures the project is completed on time.
Forecasting is the process of predicting future outcomes and trends, base… #
Related terms include Delphi technique, expert judgment, and decision-making. Forecasting is used to predict future outcomes, and to make informed decisions. For instance, a construction company might use forecasting to predict the future demand for a particular type of construction project, and to make informed decisions about resource allocation.
Forward Pass is a scheduling technique used in construction project manag… #
Related terms include backward pass, critical path method, and project scheduling. The forward pass is used to identify the earliest possible start and finish dates for each activity, and to develop a schedule that ensures the project is completed on time. For example, a construction company might use the forward pass to determine the earliest possible start and finish dates for each activity, and then develop a schedule that ensures the project is completed on time.
Gantt Chart is a visual representation of a construction project schedule… #
Related terms include project scheduling, critical path method, and PERT. The Gantt chart is used to track and manage the project progress, and to identify areas where improvement is needed. For instance, a construction company might use a Gantt chart to track the project progress, and to identify areas where improvement is needed.
Hazard is a potential source of harm or danger, which can impact the heal… #
Related terms include risk, safety, and environmental impact. The hazard is used to identify and mitigate risks, and to develop strategies for minimizing or eliminating the hazard. For example, a construction company might identify a hazard such as a hazardous material, and then develop a plan to mitigate the risk.
IFC stands for Industry Foundation Classes, which is a standard fo… #
Related terms include BIM, CAD, and data exchange. IFC is used to facilitate collaboration and integration, and to ensure that the project data is accurate and up-to-date. For instance, a construction company might use IFC to exchange project data with other stakeholders, and to ensure that the project data is accurate and up-to-date.
Inspection is the process of examining and evaluating the construction wo… #
Related terms include testing, commissioning, and validation. The inspection is used to verify that the work is complete and satisfactory, and to identify any defects or deficiencies. For example, a construction company might conduct an inspection to verify that the work is complete and satisfactory, and to identify any defects or deficiencies.
ISO stands for International Organization for Standardization, which is a… #
Related terms include quality management, safety management, and environmental management. ISO is used to ensure that the project meets the required standards, and to provide a framework for quality, safety, and environmental management. For instance, a construction company might use ISO standards to ensure that the project meets the required standards, and to provide a framework for quality, safety, and environmental management.
Key Performance Indicator is a metric or measure that is used to e… #
Related terms include dashboard, metrics, and project control. The key performance indicator is used to evaluate the performance of the project, and to track progress towards the project goals and objectives. For example, a construction company might use key performance indicators such as schedule performance index and cost performance index to evaluate the performance of a project.
Lean Construction is a philosophy and methodology that aims to min… #
Related terms include lean thinking, lean principles, and waste reduction. Lean construction is used to minimize waste and maximize value, and to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of construction processes. For instance, a construction company might use lean construction principles to minimize waste and maximize value, and to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of construction processes.
Lesson Learned is a document or record that captures the knowledge… #
Related terms include knowledge management, experience, and best practices. The lesson learned is used to capture the knowledge and experience gained from a project, and to identify best practices and areas for improvement. For example, a construction company might document the lessons learned from a project, and then use this information to improve future projects.
Life Cycle Costing is a method used in construction project management to… #
Related terms include cost-benefit analysis, feasibility study, and project justification. Life cycle costing is used to evaluate the total cost of ownership, and to make informed decisions about the project. For instance, a construction company might use life cycle costing to evaluate the total cost of ownership of a building, and to make informed decisions about the project.
Line of Balance is a technique used in construction project management to… #
Related terms include scheduling, resource allocation, and project control. The line of balance is used to schedule and control repetitive activities, and to ensure that the activities are completed on time and within budget. For example, a construction company might use the line of balance to schedule and control the construction of multiple units, and to ensure that the activities are completed on time and within budget.
Make #
or-Buy Decision is a decision made by a construction company to determine whether to produce a component or material in-house, or to purchase it from an external supplier, and is used to evaluate the costs and benefits of each option. Related terms include outsourcing, procurement, and supply chain management. The make-or-buy decision is used to evaluate the costs and benefits of each option, and to make informed decisions about the project. For instance, a construction company might make a make-or-buy decision to determine whether to produce a component in-house or to purchase it from an external supplier.
Method Statement is a document that outlines the procedures and methods t… #
Related terms include work method statement, safety method statement, and quality method statement. The method statement is used to ensure that the work is completed safely and to the required quality standards, and to provide a clear understanding of the procedures and methods to be used. For example, a construction company might develop a method statement for a specific construction activity, such as excavating a site, and then use this document to ensure that the work is completed safely and to the required quality standards.
Milestone is a significant event or achievement in a construction… #
Related terms include project schedule, project milestones, and project completion. The milestone is used to track progress and celebrate successes, and to provide a clear understanding of the project's progress and status. For instance, a construction company might identify a milestone such as the completion of the foundation work, and then track progress and celebrate successes.
Monte Carlo Simulation is a technique used in construction project manage… #
Related terms include risk analysis, uncertainty analysis, and decision-making. The Monte Carlo simulation is used to analyze and simulate the behavior of complex systems and processes, and to predict the outcomes of different scenarios. For example, a construction company might use a Monte Carlo simulation to evaluate the risks and uncertainties associated with a project, and to predict the outcomes of different scenarios.
Network Analysis is a technique used in construction project management t… #
The network analysis is used to analyze and represent the relationships between activities and tasks, and to identify the critical path and dependencies. For instance, a construction company might use network analysis to develop a project schedule, and to track progress.
OSHA stands for Occupational Safety and Health Administration, which is a… #
Related terms include safety management, risk management, and regulatory compliance. OSHA is used to ensure that the project is completed safely and in compliance with regulatory requirements, and to provide a framework for safety management and risk management. For example, a construction company might use OSHA standards to ensure that the project is completed safely and in compliance with regulatory requirements.
PDM stands for Project Delivery Method, which refers to the approach or <… #
Related terms include project management, construction management, and project delivery. The project delivery method is used to ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards, and to provide a framework for project management and construction management. For instance, a construction company might use a project delivery method such as design-build or construction management at-risk to deliver a project.
PEL stands for Project Execution Plan, which is a document that ou… #
Related terms include project management plan, project schedule, and project budget. The project execution plan is used to guide the project team and stakeholders, and to ensure that the project is completed successfully, and to provide a clear understanding of the project's scope, schedule, budget, and resources. For example, a construction company might develop a project execution plan to guide the project team and stakeholders, and to ensure that the project is completed successfully.
Performance Bond is a type of surety bond that guarantees the contractor'… #
Related terms include bid bond, payment bond, and surety bond. The performance bond is used to protect the project owner from potential losses or damages, and to ensure that the contractor completes the work to the required quality standards. For instance, a contractor might be required to post a performance bond of 10% of the total contract value.
Performance Metric is a measure or indicator that is used to evalu… #
Related terms include key performance indicator, dashboard, and project control. The performance metric is used to evaluate the performance of the project, and to track progress towards the project goals and objectives, and to identify areas where improvement is needed. For example, a construction company might use a performance metric such as schedule performance index to evaluate the performance of a project, and to track progress towards the project goals and objectives.
PERT stands for Program Evaluation and Review Technique, which is a sc… #
Related terms include project scheduling, critical path method, and network analysis. PERT is used to analyze and represent the relationships between activities and tasks, and to identify the critical path and dependencies, and to develop a project schedule and to track progress. For instance, a construction company might use PERT to develop a project schedule, and to track progress.
PFMA stands for Project and Facilities Management Association, whi… #
Related terms include project management, facilities management, and professional certification. PFMA is used to provide a framework for project management and facilities management, and to offer certification programs for project and facilities managers, and to promote the profession of project and facilities management. For example, a construction company might use PFMA standards to provide a framework for project management and facilities management, and to offer certification programs for project and facilities managers.
PMI stands for Project Management Institute, which is a professional</… #
Related terms include project management, professional certification, and project management methodology. PMI is used to provide a framework for project management, and to offer certification programs for project managers, and to promote the profession of project management. For instance, a construction company might use PMI standards to provide a framework for project management, and to offer certification programs for project managers.
PMBOK stands for Project Management Body of Knowledge, which is a guid… #
Related terms include project management, project management methodology, and professional certification. PMBOK is used to provide a framework for project management, and to offer guidance on project management practices and techniques, and to promote the profession of project management. For example, a construction company might use PMBOK to provide a framework for project management, and to offer guidance on project management practices and techniques.
Precedence Diagram is a diagram that shows the relationships between acti… #
The precedence diagram is used to develop a project schedule and to track progress, and to identify the critical path and dependencies, and to provide a clear understanding of the relationships between activities and tasks. For instance, a construction company might use a precedence diagram to develop a project schedule, and to track progress.
Procurement is the process of acquiring goods and services from external… #
Related terms include purchasing, supply chain management, and contract administration. Procurement is used to obtain the necessary materials, equipment, and labor to complete the project, and to ensure that the goods and services are procured in a fair and transparent manner. For example, a construction company might use procurement to obtain the necessary materials and equipment to complete a project.
Product Breakdown Structure is a hierarchy of products and components tha… #
Related terms include work breakdown structure, project scheduling, and critical path method. The product breakdown structure is used to develop a project schedule and to track progress, and to identify the critical path and dependencies, and to provide a clear understanding of the products and components required to complete the project. For instance, a construction company might use a product breakdown structure to develop a project schedule, and to track progress.
Project Charter is a document that outlines the project's objectives, sco… #
Related terms include project management plan, project scope statement, and stakeholder management. The project charter is used to authorize the project and to provide a clear understanding of the project's goals and objectives, and to guide the project team and stakeholders. For instance, a construction company might develop a project charter to authorize the project and to provide a clear understanding of the project's goals and objectives.
Project Management is the process of planning, organizing, and controllin… #
Related terms include construction management, project delivery, and program management. Project management is used to ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards, and to provide a framework for project management.