1.  project delivery

The process of taking a construction idea from inception to completion. It involves design, planning, execution, and handing over the project. Different methods, like design-bid-build, influence outcomes. For instance, design-build merges design and construction phases for faster delivery.

2.  substantial completion

The point when a construction project is sufficiently finished to be used for its intended purpose, though minor tasks or corrections might remain. Once reached, a facility might be used even if some finishing touches remain, like painting or landscaping.

3.  project manual

A comprehensive document detailing project requirements, including specifications, procedures, and other necessary information. While construction drawings graphically describe the project, the manual provides very detailed, specific requirements. It works as a companion to the drawings.

4.  contract sum

The total agreed-upon amount to be paid to the contractor for performing the described work in the contract document. Adjustments, like change orders, can modify this amount. It encapsulates all project costs.

5.  contract time

The duration, typically in days or months, allotted in the contract document for completing the project. Delays could result in penalties.

6.  critical path

The sequence of essential tasks in a project that determines the shortest possible project duration. If a critical task is delayed, it can impact all future milestones and delay the project’s finish date.

7.  change order

A formal modification to the original contract document, adjusting the contract sum, contract time, or scope of work. Unforeseen site conditions, like discovering unsuitable soil, might necessitate a change order, affecting contract sum (cost) or contract time (schedule).

8.  bid form

A standardized document used by contractors to submit their proposal or price for a project, typically in competitive bidding. It’s a tool for consistent, easily compared contractor proposals.

9.  unit price

A set cost for a specific portion or unit of work, like per square foot or cubic yard. Projects with variable quantities, like roadwork, benefit from this. It defines a set rate in case the scope is difficult to define.

10. competitive bidding <<– click to see a special Construction English course explaining project delivery.

A process where multiple contractors submit bids, usually using a bid form, to win a construction contract. It ensures a fair market price. Though the lowest bid often wins, other factors can influence the decision.

11. quality control

Processes to ensure that the construction work meets defined standards and requirements.

12. final payment

The last payment made to the contractor once the project achieves final completion and all requirements are met. It usually is processed after fulfilling all obligations and addressing all punch list items.

13. baseline schedule

A reference timetable, showing planned start and finish dates for project tasks. It’s the reference for progress. If tasks veer off schedule, impacts on subsequent tasks are analyzed.

14. quality assurance

Systems and actions ensuring the services and products meet quality standards, often working alongside quality control, and focuses on preventing defects. For instance, worker training is a proactive way to assure project quality.

15. punch list

A list of incomplete or defective work items that must be addressed before final payment, and is created as projects near completion. It details minor fixes or tasks that need fixing before project final payment, final completion, and certificate of occupancy.

16. purchase order

An official document authorizing a vendor to supply goods or services at a specified price, ensuring both buyer and seller agree on terms.

17. final completion

The stage when all construction tasks, including addressing the punch list, are finished, and the project is fully ready for use.

18. project budget

An estimated financial plan detailing all expected costs associated with the construction project.

19. contract document

A document, specification, or drawing that defines the scope of work, terms, contract sum, and other key details between parties.

20. defective work

Construction work that doesn’t meet the specified standards or requirements in the contract document or project manual. It could also be a safety concern, like a loose railing or a leaky roof, that the contractor must resolve before receiving final payment.