Key points to consider when enlisting a construction manager

After careful research, you have concluded that the most cost-effective approach to revitalizing an office interior or unveiling a trendy boutique is to enlist the services of a construction manager (CM). Although a CM can lasso your entire project into a manageable package not all firms are created equal. When entrusting a construction manager with your vision, here are some key points to consider: * Companies are only as strong as their people. It is in the collective know-how of these individuals that you will find true value. Choose a construction manager, who employs a team of experienced professionals that understand the delicate interplay between design intent and project feasibility. * Project experience. Your CM should posses an extensive portfolio of successfully completed projects in your industry or in those with similar construction requirements. This guarantees the creation of a cross-functional project team capable of satisfying your requirements. * Access to highly skilled subcontractors. In short, you need a construction firm that has access to an exclusive network of craftsmen. In conjunction with these trusted partners, the CM will deliver a project that meets your most stringent quality expectations. * A well-defined corporate infrastructure. This includes specialized accounting, and estimating departments, current IT resources and effective support staff. By leveraging the core competencies of these specialized departments the CM is able to guarantee each aspect of a project receives the utmost attention. Keep in mind that when the time comes to select your construction partner you should go beyond these preliminary characteristics. To qualify and select an appropriate CM, you must understand each facet of the company's operations-and as the client, you should expect your construction manager to research your business just as thoroughly. Gorguin Shaikoli is the director of marketing at Citadel Construction, New York, N.Y.