In the complex world of construction, having an effective project delivery method can make or break the success of a project. At the core of each delivery method is communication and collaboration.
These are two of the most important factors that ensure all stakeholders are on the same page and understanding at each step of the project.
This is where CMGC comes into play. This innovative approach can help foster effective collaboration on and off the jobsite.
What is CMGC in Construction?
CMGC, or Construction Manager/General Contractor, involves bringing the contractor into the project earlier in the process than some other methods. For most projects, the contractor isn’t involved in the design process and is brought in after.
With CMGC construction, the contractor can collaborate with designers so the whole team maps out a game plan and can identify problem areas before they arise.
Doing this is especially useful when unique situations or tight deadlines are in play. By using the knowledge of the contractor during the design phase, they can help communicate things that maybe only they would notice.
How Does CMGC Work?
There are two main phases of CMGC and that’s pre-construction and construction.
Pre-construction – This is when the owner or primary stakeholder selects a contractor based on their qualifications and experience with this type of project. During the design phase, the contractor serves as a consultant to provide input on materials, scheduling, pricing, and constructability of the design.
Construction – Once the design is almost done, this is when the owner and contractor work out a guaranteed maximum price for the project. If they both agree, then the contractor transitions from a consultant to the general contractor for the project.
Benefits of Collaborative Construction
There are numerous benefits to CMGC construction. They all result in a smoother and more efficient construction process and final product:
Early risk identification: One of the most prominent issues from the design to construction phase is risks or constructability factors. What a designer sometimes envisions isn’t always possible due to issues outside their control. Catching these as early as possible can save a lot of time and money.
Optimized designs: Contractors can provide real-world insights that lead to more efficient, constructable designs — potentially saving time and money.
More cost certainty: With collaborative construction, all stakeholders can have more confidence that the price they are quoted is close to the price they will pay. Surprises are the most expensive issues that pop up during construction. By having a contractor involved in the process from day one, it reduces the number of surprises.
Schedule improvements: At Bryan Construction, realistic scheduling is one of the things we always do right. Early contractor involvement often leads to more realistic schedules and the potential for faster project delivery.
Final Thoughts
While CMGC isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, it’s proving to be a valuable tool in the construction industry’s toolkit. For complex projects where collaboration and early problem-solving are crucial, CMGC can pave the way for better outcomes.
As the construction landscape continues to evolve, methods like CMGC are helping teams tackle increasingly complex challenges. By fostering open communication and leveraging diverse expertise from day one, CMGC empowers project teams to deliver high-quality results — on time and on budget.
