Candidates are introduced to the construction management profession in the first unit, which also provides a detailed overview of the sector as a whole. The roles and responsibilities of construction management personnel are discussed, along with the main functions and objectives of the global construction industry.

A step-by-step guide to organising construction projects follows in the second module, which familiarises learners with the various phases of the project lifecycle. An introduction to the project procurement process is also provided, discussed alongside project scope definition, investment appraisal, project statutory clearance and more.

The benefits of breaking larger projects and tasks down into smaller components is discussed in Module Three, in which candidates learn how to create an effective work breakdown structure for construction projects. Key considerations when formulating an efficient work breakdown structure are also presented and discussed.

Module Four outlines the importance of strategic resource allocation in construction projects, alongside tips and guidelines for producing accurate estimations. Common mistakes that can lead to inaccurate estimations are also discussed, alongside the objectives and logistics of identifying task dependencies.

Candidates then learn how meticulous planning often holds the key to a successful construction project. Several essential project planning tools are presented and discussed, along with how to make effective use of network diagrams, an overview of PERT vs. CPM in construction management and a look at the critical path method.

Risk as an inevitable component in all construction projects is examined in Module Six, along with the different types of risks that can pose a threat to project completion. Candidates study a step-by-step overview of the risk identification, classification and mitigation process, along with how to calculate an acceptable risk-reward ratio.

Module Seven outlines the steps that need to be taken to accurately estimate costs, along with the variables that can affect estimation accuracy in construction projects. Additional topics covered include revising project budgets, estimating for variations, producing estimates while conducting feasibility studies and more.

The objectives of preliminary site investigations are then explored, along with how to ensure the initial assessment takes all important factors into account. Topics covered include zoning, flood protection, flood plains, engineering geology, environmental impact studies and assessing site suitability requirements for different building types.

The logistics of organizing a working construction site are then examined, in which learners study typical daily duties in construction and who takes responsibility for them. The provision of essential facilities and utilities is also covered, such as office space, accommodation and adequate first aid provisions.

Module 10 compares the benefits and drawbacks of hiring with those of purchasing products, while discussing the importance of planning strategically for the procurement of construction equipment. Tips and guidelines for calculating the most cost-effective procurement method are provided and discussed.

The importance of appropriate equipment storage, maintenance and general upkeep is then discussed, along with how to create a spare parts inventory and avoid the potential consequences of equipment breakdowns. Additional topics covered include maintenance facilities, field repairs, stock planning and more.

An introduction to material management in the construction sector follows in Module 12, outlining a series of good practice guidelines for efficient material procurement and storage. Further guidelines for the safe and efficient handling of construction materials are also provided, along with the fundamentals of quality control.

The human resource management responsibilities of the construction manager are explored in Module 13, which outlines the importance of confident leadership in the construction sector. The criticality of strategic manpower planning is also discussed, along with the role HR management plays in the success of construction projects.

Continuing the team leadership theme, Module 14 includes a step-by-step guide to building better teams and optimising team performance. The concept of the high-performing team is also discussed in-depth, along with potential challenges and drawbacks associated with team-based work.

Candidates then learn how differences of opinion cannot be avoided, therefore must be managed in a strategic and proactive way. The potential for conflict to produce positive outcomes is discussed, along with common reasons for workplace conflict and how communication always holds the key to effective conflict management.

Module 16 discusses the important of taking a proactive approach to the prevention of violence in the workplace, exploring a series of common violence ‘triggers’ and how to defuse situations before they escalate. The development and implementation of a workplace violence prevention program is discussed in-depth.

Construction site storage management is brought back into discussion in Module 17, in which candidates are introduced to several major storage systems and standards within the sector. Further insights into the procurement process are also provided, highlighting the differences between purchasing and procurement.

Module 18 focuses on the benefits of building and retaining good relationships with vendors, suppliers and service providers. Several frameworks for measuring vendor quality and effectiveness are detailed and discussed, along with tips for always ensuring the right vendors are chosen for a construction project.

The importance of prioritising quality at every stage of the construction project is then discussed, covering the various tools and techniques used to ensure consistent quality control. Using incentives and penalties to improve quality is also discussed, along with how to ensure quality service is provided by third-party contractors.

In the final module, learners are introduced to several different types of contracts in the construction sector and their functions. Examples of which include combined lump sum contracts, unit price contracts and competitive bid contracts, along with guidelines for selecting the appropriate contract type.