Project Management, Quality Control, and Project Closeout
Managing information
Project management is a document-control discipline. Submittals (product data, shop drawings, samples, mockups) verify that what will be installed matches the specification; the reviewer confirms compliance but does not relieve the contractor of design responsibility for means and methods. RFIs resolve conflicts and ambiguities; the answer is only binding when issued as a formal supplement or change. Maintain a current set of drawings, a submittal log, and a schedule of values tied to the cost breakdown so pay applications can be verified against installed work.
Quality control
An effective QC plan is proactive: preconstruction review of the scope, a definable features of work list, and three-phase control - preparatory (review requirements and materials before starting), initial (inspect first work in place), and follow-up (verify continuing compliance). Inspections, testing, and documented corrections close the loop. Benchmark and mockup acceptance prevents systemic rework.
Change management and cost control
Every change should be documented as a scope change, a time impact, and a cost impact, with notice given per the contract. Track committed cost against budget, and earned value against schedule.
Closeout
Closeout deliverables typically include: punch list completion, demonstrated systems and owner training, as-built record drawings, O&M manuals, warranties and guarantees, final testing and balancing reports, consent of surety, and final unconditional lien waivers as a condition of final payment and release of retainage. Substantial completion is the milestone that shifts risk and starts warranties; final completion releases retainage.
Trap
Accepting a verbal RFI answer, or issuing final payment before unconditional waivers and the consent of surety are in hand.
Rule of thumb
If it is not written and filed, it did not happen - document control is the project manager's primary tool.