Handy notes for Construction Projects

1. Definition:

“A project is a temporary endeavour undertaken to create a unique product, service or result. The
temporary nature of projects indicates a definite beginning and end. The end is reached when the
project’s objectives have been achieved or when the project is terminated because its objectives will
not or cannot be met, or when the need for the project no longer exists.” - PMBOK 4th Edition

2. Stages of a Project

a. Initiating
b. Planning
c. Executing
d. Monitoring and Controlling
e. Closing

3. In planning a project, objectives must be set and these must be:

a. Specific: What result(s) will you deliver?

b. Measurable – How will you demonstrate and evaluate the extent to which the objective
is met?
c. Attainable: Is the objective reasonable enough to be accomplished? How?
d. Realistic / Relevant – How is the objective tied to the result?
e. Time-bound – What are your target dates for completion of the objective?

4. What is the missing critical element in the Project Management Triangle?

COST

5. There are many tools used in management of project. One of these is a visual representation of the
steps and their durations and is typically depicted as a chart with horizontal bars, and is referred to
as a Gantt Chart.

6. If there are no specifications in the project for a particular material, it is recommended that best
practice be used and specifications from the local, regional or International bodies (e.g ASTM, BS,
European) should be considered.

Industrial Materials Unit

imu@cariri.com
 Handy notes for Construction Projects

7. Please answer True (T) or False (F) to the following:

Comment T/F
a. If a project runs into delays, we should continue working without F
informing the project team.
b. The concrete supplier on site was changed to one that has a “good F
reputation”. We do not need to check the quality of the concrete as often
as the specifications.
c. If we compact the material and not check for density no one will know F
after the roadway is paved.
d. A concrete cube and a concrete cylinder made from the same concrete will T
give different compressive strengths at the same age.
e. Shortcuts in construction methodology are encouraged to ensure the F
project is kept on schedule.
f. The Gantt Chart is a diagram that the Client’s Engineer needed us to do F
and is only done once at the beginning of the project, printed and posted.
g. There are standard procedures to sample materials governed by ASTM and T
other recognized bodies.
h. Samples can only be taken from fresh concrete. After the concrete is F
cured, there is no way to know the compressive strength.
i. The best time to engage a consultant is to wait until there is a problem on F
site.
j. Concrete compressive strength is measured in units of N/mm2, psi and T
MPa.
k. Concrete arriving on site appears to not be workable. It is okay to add F
water to it.
l. A Nuclear Density test is used to confirm the compaction of soil on site. T
m. It is better to have an asphalt mix with higher bitumen content than the F
specification as this will bind everything for better performance.
n. Quality checks on materials are only needed if the reports are needed for F
payment.
o. A project is considered to be complete when its objectives and scope have T
been met.

We thank you for your participation and attention and hope that today’s session added value to your
day!

Industrial Materials Unit

imu@cariri.com