Over the years we have had opportunities to fulfill the role of being a Project Manager for local Counties during their Construction projects... This position is called an OMP...
What is an Owner’s Project Manager (OPM)?
An Owner's Project Manager (OPM) is an invaluable resource for any project owner. They deliver a suite of critical services across all project phases. With an OPM in charge, projects tend to progress more efficiently, and achieving complex objectives becomes more feasible.
An OPM is a member of the project team, operating under a distinct contract with the owner. Their responsibility is to represent the owner's interests and manage the project comprehensively, which includes overseeing planning, design, construction, commissioning, and the closeout stages.
An Owner's Project Manager communicates directly with the owner, adhering strictly to their directives and prioritizing their best interests. As specialists in design and construction, they provide the owner with invaluable, impartial guidance during every phase of the project.
Why do I need an OPM?
If you have a competent team on your project, you might question the necessity of hiring a separate owner’s project manager (OPM). An OPM stands out from the team in a crucial aspect: their sole commitment is to you, the owner. Their actions are dedicated entirely to serving your interests.
This translates to them providing expert, unbiased advice without any conflict of interest. With an OPM in charge of overseeing your project, they can adeptly handle any emerging issues and even prevent potential problems. In construction projects, numerous things can go awry, such as unexpected construction dilemmas, delays beyond the planned schedule, or budgets that spiral out of control. An OPM's oversight can help reduce these risks and many others.
What services does an OPM provide?
An Owner's Project Manager (OPM) offers a variety of services at every phase of a project tailored to your requirements. Their objective is to minimize expenses, enhance value, guarantee construction quality, and maintain the project within budget and on schedule.
Key services provided by an OPM include:
Budget and schedule development/management
An Owner's Project Manager (OPM) aids in developing the project's budget, offering options for optimal value and efficiency. They ensure the project remains within budget and extraneous expenses are curtailed. Additionally, the OPM provides proactive schedule management to prevent delays and guarantee timely project completion.
Design oversight and review
Hiring an OPM is most advantageous before the design phase commences. Serving as the owner's representative, they can supervise the planning and design stages, ensuring that the designs align with the owner's requirements. Additionally, they can verify compliance with relevant codes and regulations from the outset of the project.
Construction coordination and monitoring
The Owner's Project Manager (OPM) is actively involved throughout the entire construction phase. They often handle the procurement and pre-qualification of contractors. Their role includes closely monitoring the construction at all stages to ensure that everything is completed on schedule and according to the plans.
This entails frequent on-site presence and ongoing communication with all parties involved in the construction project, including the construction manager, contractors, and commissioning agents. Additionally, they conduct construction risk assessments to proactively detect potential issues before they occur.
FF&E move management
Upon completion of construction, the Owner's Project Manager (OPM) can also manage the building occupancy process. This involves overseeing the tenants' move into the building and coordinating the installation of furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E).
Punch list and closeout management
In conclusion, an Owner's Project Manager (OPM) ensures the proper closure of the project, verifying that all contractual obligations are fulfilled and compiling a punch list of any tasks that remain incomplete.
Whether constructing a new property or renovating an existing one, engaging an OPM guarantees that your interests are prioritized. An OPM also ensures that your projects are completed on schedule, within budget, and to a superior quality standard.
Reach out to discover how our seasoned team of project managers can assist your organization with your upcoming construction endeavors.