In any construction project, all of the technical experts work hard in their own areas of specialty. But without a generalist who can see the big picture, coordinate the various technical aspects, and keep everyone focused on the needs of the owner and end user, sometimes the entire project suffers....
A strong project manager is a value-added professional—someone who bring skills other than technical expertise to the table. One of those skills is the ability to recognize which of many factors is the real priority in a given situation....
A number of years ago I designed and built a new home for myself. I was working with an architect who had a good reputation in the community and was proud of it.
At one point, the architect asked me about the wall separating the great room from the bedroom wing. Did I want 5/8-inch or 3/4-inch drywall installed, and did I want it screwed or nailed? My stomach lurched—a familiar sign that I had no idea what he was talking about.
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