Project Manager : Definition, Role, and Approach - Patriarche

Project Manager : Definition, Role, and Approach

The project manager plays a central role in overseeing the execution of a building design and construction project. What are their duties and responsibilities? How can you choose the right one? Follow the guide!

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What is a project manager?

Definition of the project manager

The project manager is a construction professional responsible for the overall management of a project. Their role is to meet the expectations of the client (project owner), who initiates the project. As such, they may be an architect, a construction company, an engineering consultancy, or even a skilled tradesperson.

The role of the project manager

Responsible for the project from design through to completion, the project manager is involved in designing, planning, supervising, reviewing, and delivering the work. They ensure the project complies with the specifications set out by the client (project owner). As such, they must have a strong architectural and technical understanding of construction, while also being able to manage multiple teams simultaneously.

What are the responsibilities of the project manager in construction or renovation?

As the conductor throughout the entire project process, the project manager is entrusted with a wide range of responsibilities:

Needs assessment: understanding the specifications and identifying the client’s precise requirements.
Feasibility study: assessing the project’s viability in line with the client’s specifications.
Design development: architectural and technical design of the project.
Work coordination: ensuring scheduling, deadlines, and quality of execution by coordinating all stakeholders’ interventions.
Site supervision: overseeing the smooth progress of the construction site.
Project handover: verifying compliance and triggering warranties and insurance coverage.

Project manager or architect: which should you choose?

The project manager, whether an architect or not, designs, studies, supervises, and coordinates the work in collaboration with the client (project owner). However, although their roles are similar, there are notable differences.

No specific diploma is required to become a project manager. In contrast, the profession of architect is only open to those holding a state-recognized degree—hence the term ‘DPLG architect’. It is the only profession in the construction sector governed by a code of ethics, aimed at providing a high-quality living environment for users. Architects also bring added value to the conceptual phase of a project, which lies at the heart of their profession.

However, the obligations and the method of remuneration (a percentage of the overall project cost) are the same for project managers, whether they are architects or not. It is important to note that the involvement of an architect is mandatory for preparing the plans included in a building permit application.

What is the difference between a project manager and a client (project owner)?

The client (project owner) is the one who commissions and finances the project, while the project manager is responsible for ensuring its proper execution. The project manager follows the client’s directives, but the client relies on their expertise in design and construction. As such, the project manager provides knowledge and recommendations, and must ensure the project is completed to the highest standards.

Our co-design approach

Co-design involves working in an iterative and collaborative way with every member of the team. It takes the form of working meetings or workshops and helps refine the project brief, define specific needs, propose solutions, and make collective decisions. This approach facilitates cooperation between stakeholders and allows the project to be adjusted at each stage based on feedback and any unforeseen issues.

Augmented architecture: project ownership, project management, and operations

At Patriarche, we have developed an augmented architecture model to operate at every stage of a project’s value chain. The Patriarche architecture and engineering firm is also supported by several entities:

Bart | Patriarche: project owner
Autumn | Patriarche: general contractor
Myah | Patriarche: interior fit-out general contractor
Walter | Patriarche: operator, service provider, and space manager

These different entities are not systematically involved in all our projects in order to remain flexible. Indeed, we are accustomed to forming partnerships with other project owners, architects, and contractors. Depending on the context of the project, we activate one or more entities and then collaborate with other professionals.

In this way, we may take on the role of project owner and commission the project when it is led by Bart. We assume the role of project manager when Patriarche is engaged as a designer or as a contractor through Autumn or Myah. This open platform allows us to address all stages of a project, maintain a global perspective, and benefit from a wide range of expertise.

Patriarche, a versatile project manager

With over 60 years of experience, our multidisciplinary platform has delivered technical, functional, aesthetic, and sustainable solutions through more than 4,200 projects. We have supported clients across a wide range of sectors, including industry, education, laboratories, offices, healthcare, renovation, residential, tourism, sports, and culture.
Moreover, adherence to schedules, costs, deadlines, and quality of execution lies at the heart of Autumn’s and Myah’s approach as general contractors.

The different phases of a building project for the project manager

The study phase

Several stages structure the study phase of a project:

Diagnostic studies (in the case of a refurbishment).
Concept design (ESQ): initial proposals based on the brief, specifications, and budget envelope.
Preliminary design (AVP): defining the project’s main framework, establishing an overall cost, finalizing the program, and setting up project management contracts.
Detailed design (PRO): finalizing the project, submitting applications for administrative approvals, and establishing the overall project schedule.
Assistance with awarding works contracts (ACT): preparing tender documents and launching calls for bids, as well as drafting construction contracts.
Execution studies (EXE): developing detailed, trade-by-trade studies to produce precise plans for carrying out the construction project.

The construction phase

This phase is characterized by construction supervision (DET), which involves monitoring the site and ensuring compliance. The site engineer oversees and coordinates the work on-site. They manage the schedule and ensure the proper sequencing and coordination of the various contractors involved.

Handover

Assistance with handover operations (AOR) is the final phase of the project. It includes the follow-up of reservations (snagging items), the as-built documentation (DOE), and support to the client (project owner).