The facilities manager can avoid confusing the architect and all other participants by clarifying project decision-making authority. If everyone is in charge, then no one is in charge. Establish an adequate project budget. Base budgets on recent comparable experiences and estimates before the project starts. Require estimates at the midpoint and end of schematic design, design development and construction documents.
Cost is the single most important issue on any project.
Budgets should include all project costs, including escalation to the time frame of construction, and contingency funds for unanticipated costs. E-mail, fax machines and detailed meeting notes are key to effective communications. Additional techniques are appropriate if you are undertaking a major development program. These include establishing project Web sites and establishing a project office that can be shared by the owner, designers and constructors. Develop a complete program.