Foundations of Construction Management

In this opening module, you’ll build a solid platform in the principles, regulations, and organizational frameworks that underpin every successful construction project. You’ll learn how the Construction Manager’s role differs from other project roles, explore key contract forms and delivery methods, and understand the legal, ethical, and professional standards that ensure safe, compliant, and responsible project delivery. Real-world case vignettes will illustrate how strong foundations translate into on-time, on-budget, and high-quality outcomes.

Key Topics & Learning Outcomes

• Role & Scope

  • Differentiate the Construction Manager from Project and Program Managers

  • Map the lifecycle of residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects

• Regulatory & Legal Framework

  • Navigate building codes, permits, zoning, and environmental regulations

  • Compare major contract templates (FIDIC, AIA, NEC) and delivery methods (Design–Bid–Build, Design–Build, CM at-Risk)

• Organizational & Contract Structures

  • Define responsibilities in owner, contractor, and consultant hierarchies

  • Apply contract terms to manage scope, changes, and risk allocation

• Ethics & Professional Responsibility

  • Establish a safety-first culture and sustainability commitments

  • Engage with communities and stakeholders in an ethical, transparent manner

By the end of this module, you will be able to articulate the core functions and accountabilities of a Construction Manager, select the appropriate contractual and delivery models for your project, and ground your work in strong legal and ethical frameworks.