What Is Your Construction Management IQ?

An Illustrative Perspective

Successful construction managers bring strong skills to their projects, but few have mastered all aspects of their overarching role. Technical books that describe requirements, responsibilities, scheduling and other details have either been too simplistic for intelligent professionals or too dry and dense to engage entry-level construction managers. “What is Your Construction Management IQ?” stands out by fully exploring the complexity of this topic and engaging intelligent readers.

Author Lisa C. Sachs gives smart managers the framework they need to expand their influence, providing nuanced insights that are still enjoyable to read and straightforward. Experienced professionals and those just beginning construction careers can add onto their skills with the tools Sachs provides.

The well-organized textbook covers almost all conceivable aspects of construction management. Because it is a practical guide, the author steers clear of untested management theories, and instead gives readers a real understanding of the subject matter. The subtle sense of humor in the book’s illustrations emphasize the downsides of complex theories, and enliven what could otherwise be considered dry subjects.  

Sachs includes an excellent series of checklists and subcategories that diagram the numerous levels and linkages of construction management.  This framework details various construction phases, the pre-bid process, the necessary information for the job start, move management, quality management, cost management, schedule tactics and project closeout. In addition, the glossary is thorough without being too detailed or cumbersome; this makes for easy use and clear understanding. 

This highly practical guide provides step-by-step instructions with bold italics pointing to the essentials: Sentences beginning with “Have you…?” and “CMs should…” give clear direction for gaining control over the entire construction management process and achieving project goals. The skillful can become masterful using these directions for planning and organizing each stage of a project from programming to close-out.

”What is Your Construction Management IQ?” is a great resource for construction managers, engineers, administrators, document controllers, and anyone else seeking a “total systems approach” to success in this field.

Our featured book reviewer, Tess da Silva, is a Certified Construction Manager and LEED Accredited Professional with more than 15 years of general construction and construction management experience.  She is just one of the many subscribers found on Industry Speaks.