What is a project?

A project is a temporary endeavour undertaken to create a unique product, service or result, such as a building. The temporary nature of projects indicates that a project has a definite beginning and end. The end is reached when the project’s objectives have been achieved and when the project is terminated because its objectives cannot or will not be met, or when the need for the project no longer exists. The classification of project in project management varies according to a number of different factors such as complexity, source of capital, its content, those involved and its purpose. Projects can be classified according to their complexity.A project is considered easy when the tasks are basic and the usual detailed planning is not required, while a complicated project is considered to have many task interdependencies. Projects can also be classified according to the source of capital. Public financing comes from government institutions. Private financing comes from businesses or private incentives. Mixed financing comes from a mixed source of public and private funding. Alternatively, they could be classified according to the project content.Construction projects can be anything to do with the construction of civil- or architectural work and can vary in size, value and type enormously.A construction project is the organised process of constructing and/or renovating and/or refurbishing and/or remodelling etc. a building, structure or infrastructure. The construction project process typically starts with an overarching requirement that is developed through the creation of a client’s brief, which is then developed into feasibility studies, followed by design, financing and the physical on-site construction.

Your task

Come up with your definition of a ‘construction project’, then reflect on some projects that you have undertaken or are familiar with.

Pick one example and consider what made that project a success.

You may find this Youtube video helpful.

This is an additional video, hosted on YouTube.