4.1: Mastering Decision Making

Timeline

Keeps the project on schedule.

Cost

Helps budget properly and avoid overspending.

Safety

Ensures compliance and prevents accidents.

Quality

Helps choose the right materials and methods.

Teamwork

Aligns people, roles, and tasks.

Overall success

Leads to client satisfaction and smooth delivery

Initiation

• Define scope (What will be built)

• Check feasibility (Is it possible?)

• Choose project delivery method (e.g., design-build, traditional, etc.)

Planning

• Design designs and drawings

• Allocate resources (money, people, materials)

• Make schedules and timelines

Execution

• Buy materials (procurement)

• Manage workers and subcontractors

• Enforce quality control on site

Monitoring and Controlling

• Track progress vs schedule

• Manage risks and handle issues fast

• Approve or reject design changes

Closure

• Turn over the project to the owner

• Evaluate results

• Record lessons learned for future projects

Owner

sets goals, approves budget

Client

gives requirements and feedback

Project Manager

coordinates teams, oversees decisions

Contractor

executes construction and manages labor/materials

Architect

leads design, ensures building meets aesthetic and legal standards

Engineer

handles technical and structural safety

Supplier

provides quality materials on time

Regulatory Bodies

issue permits, check compliance with laws

Strategic

long-term; project-wide; choosing project type, financing method

Tactical

mid-term; department/phase level; scheduling, subcontractor selection

Operational

short-term; daily site tasks; ordering materials, safety checks

Uncertainty

Weather, permit delays

Communication Gaps

Conflicting goals among stakeholders

Budget Constraints

Price changes, unexpected expenses

Time Pressures

Tight deadlines, delayed tasks

Safety Risks

Compliance issues, site hazards

Bulding Information Modeling

visualizes the project, detects design clashes early

Project Management Software

organizes schedules and team tasks

Risk Analysis Tools

identifies and ranks possible risks

Real-Time Monitoring Systems

tracks safety and progress on-site

Data Analytics

predicts costs and timelines accurately