Chapter 3: Construction Pre-Planning (CMPM) - Summary
3-1 Planning
Planning is a critical component of successful construction projects.
Four fundamental pre-planning rules:
1. Involve the construction superintendent from the start.
2. Break down the job into components.
3. Create a correction plan that is constantly reviewed.
4. Utilize modern tools, like computers, for scheduling and layout.
3-2 The Project Manager
The project manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing
construction.
Construction management involves unique challenges, including uncertainties and the
need for coordination.
Essential tasks include:
1. Establishing project goals and priorities.
2. Identifying tasks and estimating time.
3. Allocating resources and preparing a budget.
4. Monitoring progress to ensure goals are met.
3-3 The Worksheet
A planning document that outlines construction sequences, material deliveries,
workforce requirements, and project timelines.
Helps predict start and completion dates based on a backward-working method from
the expected completion date.
3-4 Timetable
Informal meetings with key personnel help ensure that procurement and construction
align with the schedule.
The sequence of activities is prioritized, and long-term material orders should be placed
early.
3-5 Project Engineer’s Review
The project engineer evaluates the timetable’s logic and feasibility, making necessary
revisions.
Graphical reporting helps track progress and detect issues such as budget overruns and
supervision gaps.
3-6 Preliminaries and Site Management
After contract award, preparations include:
1. Assigning key personnel.
2. Procuring equipment.
3. Setting up temporary structures (offices, storage, roadways, etc.).
4. Establishing efficient site organization to avoid delays and confusion.
3-7 Planning Program and Progress Chart
A time and progress chart ensures systematic project execution.
Helps detect delays and assigns responsibility for them.
Also aids in financial planning for construction phases.
3-8 Maintaining Time and Progress Chart
The chart should be flexible to allow modifications.
Tracks key aspects like project phases, material deliveries, and completion deadlines.
Helps identify potential over-runs and adjust resources accordingly.
3-9 Planning and Scheduling with Gantt Chart
Gantt charts provide a simple, visual representation of project schedules.
Useful for monitoring progress but lacks detail on activity dependencies.
More complex projects require advanced methods like PERT and CPM (discussed in
later chapters).
3-10 Material Supply
A structured procurement schedule prevents supply shortages and storage issues.
Purchase programs should be aligned with project needs to ensure timely deliveries.
3-11 Financial and Budgeting
Construction requires careful financial planning, including budgeting for salaries,
materials, and equipment.
Two budget types:
1. Static (Fixed) Budget – Predetermined funds for a set period.
2. Variable (Flexible) Budget – Adjusts with project scope and income.
3-12 Budget Preparation
Budgeting should involve department heads to ensure realistic planning.
Financial budgets track anticipated income and expenditure, helping manage cash flow.
3-13 Procurement Processes
Procurement is critical for ensuring the timely and cost-effective supply of materials.
Responsibilities include:
1. Ensuring quality and quantity.
2. Maintaining supplier records.
3. Reviewing specifications for simplifications.
3-14 Inventory Control
Prevents material shortages while avoiding excessive stockpiling.
Helps construction companies maintain efficiency and cost control.
3-15 Site Management of the Work
Safety is a top priority, requiring proper equipment maintenance and worker training.
Foremen and supervisors play a key role in enforcing safety standards.
3-16 Planned Maintenance
Preventive maintenance reduces sudden equipment failures.
Regular inspections help extend equipment lifespan and minimize downtime.
Equipment rental is an alternative to ownership, reducing maintenance costs and initial
investments.
Key Notes on Numbered Sections
1. Four Basic Rules of Planning (3-1) – Early involvement, structured breakdown,
constant review, and modern tools for efficiency.
2. Project Manager Responsibilities (3-2) – Leadership, coordination, and risk
management.
3. Timetable (3-4) – Critical for sequencing tasks and avoiding conflicts in material
procurement.
4. Gantt Chart (3-9) – Useful for tracking progress but lacks detailed dependency
mapping.
5. Financial Planning (3-11 & 3-12) – Essential for sustaining project operations and
avoiding budget shortfalls.
6. Procurement (3-13) – Poor procurement planning can halt projects due to missing
materials.
7. Site Safety (3-15) – Strict enforcement of safety protocols prevents accidents and
legal issues.
8. Planned Maintenance (3-16) – Preventive maintenance saves costs and avoids major
equipment failures.
