On any construction project, there are always a number of key players involved. The owner, architect, general contractor, construction manager, various specialty trades each with their own project manager and more.  In large commercial projects, the ultimate responsible party for the overall project is either a Construction Manager or General Contractor. They both have the same goal of completing the project to the satisfaction of the owner. However, there are some distinct differences between the two regarding their organizational structure, how they were selected for the project and their relationship with the owner.

On the jobsite, the activities and responsibilities of a General Contractor and Construction Manager are essentially the same. The difference lies in the nature of the relationship and the structure of the contract.

Construction Management is generally a more collaborative relationship than that of General Contractor. As mentioned, with General Contracting, the construction company provides a competitive bid and then delivers a project for that amount. Any cost savings become additional profit for the GC. With Construction Management, the construction company works with the client from the earliest stages to advise and develop a budget for the project. The owner selects the options they prefer and the Construction Manager executes the project guided by that budget and based on an agreed upon fee. Cost savings are returned to the owners budget.