Who Manages Your Project Better, PMC or Contractor?
Introduction
The distinction between a Project Management Consultant (PMC) and a contractor is one of the major confusions in construction projects. There is a general belief that both are used in the same manner and hence made in bad decisions. As a matter of fact, the roles that they play differ entirely and making the wrong decision could be a direct influence on the outcome of the project.
Duty of a Contractor
The construction work is carried out by a contractor. They are concerned with the project completion in accordance with specifications, cost and time agreed.
Nevertheless, execution efficiency and profit margins are the major motivators among contractors. This may occasionally result in quality or cost transparency being compromised unless it is monitored.
Role of a PMC
A PMC is an agent of the client. Their duties are to cause, organize and oversee the whole project.
PMCs are not involved in building activities as opposed to contractors. Instead they have made sure that the contractors work as per standards, timelines and budgets. This gives an extra level of control.
Control and Accountability
The most important distinction is that of control. PMCs control the entire project whilst contractors control execution.
Absence of a PMC means that the client will have to directly address the contractor, and it needs technical know-how. Through a PMC, there is less risk and enhanced accountability via professional oversight.
Cost and Impact of the Decision
A PMC will increase first cost, although it can save huge losses associated with delays, rework, or defective products.
Contractor-only models might look cost effective at first sight but might be associated with some indeterminable costs unless managed appropriately.
Better this or that?
How do you know, there is no universal answer. In the small projects, a contractor might suffice. A PMC is more risk-reducing and offers more control to a complex or large-scale project.
Conclusion
There is no substitution between PMC and contractor. Contractors are constructioniers and the PMCs are managers. This difference is critical in making the correct decision. In most cases, using a PMC will be more viable so that there is control, transparency and long term value.