However, when all participants understand the responsibilities of each player during construction, projects will probably proceed more smoothly. This is the first in a series of three articles on public works construction that are written to lay the foundation for concepts that are keys to the broad, complex field of construction. George Bloome, AIA, P.E., president of Ralph Hahn and Associates, Springfield, field, explains that just as there are differences between the two professions, there are also different disciplines within the professions. The service of architects is generally the design of buildings where people live or work. Structural, mechanical and electrical engineers design specific building components.
Civil engineers are frequently responsible for site engineering related to buildings.
They also work on infrastructure projects, such as roads, wastewater treatment, water supply transmission and the feasibility studies that precede them, Bloome says. Project owners may contract tract separately with several firms for individual project components or they may select one professional design firm that is then responsible for selecting sub-consultants. In simplest terms, architects and engineers prepare plans and specifications. In reality, the design professionals job encompasses planning even beyond an owner's immediate needs. This includes feasibility studies, preliminary and final designs that refine owners' needs and maximize construction dollars, bid evaluation and construction administration and observation.