CEM202-Construction Project Management

Module Provider: School of Construction Management and Engineering, School of Built Environment
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: CEM235 Engineering Project Management and CEM201 An Introduction to Project Management
Current from: 2020/1

Email: s.kabiri@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
The construction sector provides infrastructure and facilities to all other economic sectors. In this module we address the key principles of managing the supply side of this provision. Construction work is typically oriented around projects and the supply chain is extensive. In this kind of business environment, a key requirement is to manage the delivery of specific obligations within the parameters of specific objectives. Moreover, the success of the business depends on the ability to manage the demands of a variety of simultaneous projects. Effective project management is essential to business success. Managing a number of projects, in sequence and in parallel, especially so. Thus, the focus in this module is on the interface between delivering successful projects and managing the flow and balance between projects in order to maintain a successful business.

Aims:
To provide an explanation of basic project management techniques and an understanding of how construction businesses manage their resources within and between projects. At the work package level, the emphasis is on achieving delivery within specified targets relating to cost, time and quality. At the tactical level, the emphasis is on maintaining and developing the businesses whose income is derived from projects.

Assessable learning outcomes:
At the end of this module, students will be able to relate project management tools and techniques to project delivery objectives. They will be able to recognise the impact of the dynamics of project-based work and develop tactics for business survival in a project-based business. They will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the application the methods and tools used for project management, such as construction planning, cost control, managing risk and quality, and designing the organisa tion structure for projects.

Additional outcomes:
To appreciate the importance and position of broader industry policy imperatives and the distinctive nature of contemporary construction businesses in relation to the business, social and environmental contexts.

Outline content:

The course will consist of lectures and seminars with directed reading. The topics to be covered are:

1. Project management – introduction, definitions and challenges


2. Commercial management: principles, sizes and characteristics of construction firms, business strategies


3. Selecting projects and bidding strategies: managing the flow of work through the organisation.


4. Project leadership, project managers and team d ynamics.


5. Strategic issues: design and value management, health and safety, logistics and sustainability


6. Risk management


7. Tactical issues: programme and project control, cost planning and control, quality control, resource management


8. Successful management of project-based firms in construction and improvement agendas

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Lectures / Seminars and directed reading

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:
One assignment

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 50% overall

Reassessment arrangements:
Students are required to contact the School to confirm reassessment arrangements.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1. Required text books:


2. Specialist equipment or materials:


3. Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:


4. Printing and binding:


5. Computers and devices with a particular specification:


6. Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 28 April 2020