Specialised Occupational Diploma: Professional Construction Project Manager

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to capacitate the learner to be able to function as a Professional Construction Project Manager.

Professional Construction Project Managers (CPM's) are responsible for overseeing the planning, design, construction, and completion of a building project, ensuring that the construction is delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. They work closely with architects, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure that the project meets the client's requirements and specifications and is built within the legal and regulatory requirements that apply to the type of construction, construction site and related environmental protection requirements. The CPM oversees the management of projects in the built environment from conception through to completion, handover, and commissioning. The work includes the coordination of all professional services. The CPM serves as the central point of responsibility for all project activities and decisions during the life cycle of the project.

Successfully completing a qualification in Construction Project Management offers learners a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge that are highly valued in the dynamic construction industry. Qualifying learners gain proficiency in project planning, resource allocation, risk management, and effective communication, enabling them to excel as competent project managers. They acquire the ability to navigate complex construction environments, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. Furthermore, learners develop a deep understanding of regulatory compliance, safety protocols, and ethical considerations, contributing to a safer and more responsible construction practice. With this qualification, learners unlock diverse career opportunities, from overseeing projects of varying scales to contributing to sustainable infrastructure development, all while playing a vital role in shaping the future of the construction sector.

This qualification equips individuals with the skills, knowledge, and expertise to effectively manage and oversee various aspects of construction projects.

A qualified learner will be able to

• Lead and coordinate the inception of the construction project to ensure the development of clear project objectives and determine the project viability through the creation and evaluation of a detailed feasibility study.
• Facilitate the development of a construction project brief, which outlines the project requirements, budget, and schedule.
• Guide and lead the construction project team to create the detailed design of the project, including architectural, structural, and engineering plans.
• Guide and coordinate the selection of project service providers and ensure the appropriate contracting with the suppliers and contractors who will provide the necessary materials, equipment, and labour for the project.

Rationale

The construction industry is a pivotal driver of economic growth and development in South Africa, contributing significantly to job creation, infrastructure improvement, and overall economic progress. Within this dynamic sector, construction project managers play a vital role in coordinating and overseeing projects, ensuring their successful execution from inception to completion. However, the absence of a standardised occupational qualification for construction project managers in South Africa poses substantial challenges to the industry's efficiency, safety, and sustainable growth. Effective project management is crucial for timely completion, cost control, and quality assurance of construction projects. A standardised occupational qualification for construction project managers will equip professionals with essential skills, knowledge, and competencies needed to streamline project workflows, allocate resources efficiently, and mitigate potential delays. This will lead to increased project completion rates and reduced financial losses due to inefficiencies.

Establishing an official occupational qualification for construction project managers will elevate the professionalism and credibility of individuals in this role. Accreditation and recognition by relevant industry bodies will ensure that project managers possess the necessary qualifications to effectively manage projects, promoting trust among stakeholders such as clients, investors, and regulatory authorities. South Africa's construction industry is grappling with a skills shortage, with a mismatch between the demands of projects and the skills possessed by professionals. A standardised qualification will address this gap by providing targeted education and training, empowering construction project managers with up-to-date knowledge and best practices. This will result in a more competent workforce capable of delivering projects that meet international standards.

The development of an occupational qualification for construction project managers in South Africa is not just a necessity but a strategic imperative. Such a qualification will bolster project efficiency, ensure safety and compliance, enhance professionalism, bridge the skills gap, and contribute to the country's economic growth. By addressing these critical areas, South Africa's construction industry can flourish and continue to play a pivotal role in the nation's development journey.

The following are qualifications currently registered on the NQF that relates to Construction Project Management

• National Diploma: Building, NQF Level 6.

The purpose of this qualification is to equip learners with the skills and knowledge required to manage various aspects of building construction projects. Graduates are capable of supervising and coordinating construction processes, managing resources, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.

• Bachelor of Science in Construction Studies, NQF Level 7.

The purpose of this qualification aims to develop individuals into highly skilled construction professionals who can effectively manage construction projects. Graduates are equipped with comprehensive knowledge of project management, construction technology, and related fields.

• Advanced Diploma in Construction Management, NQF Level, 7.

This qualification is designed for individuals who already possess a relevant degree or diploma in a related field. It aims to enhance their skills and knowledge in construction project management, including areas such as contracts management, construction economics, and project planning.

• National Certificate: Construction Contracting, NQF Level 4.

This qualification focuses on developing skills for individuals involved in construction contracting. It covers areas such as procurement processes, contract administration, and project documentation.

• National Certificate: Construction Health and Safety, NQF Level 5

This qualification is designed to train individuals in managing health and safety aspects within construction projects. Qualifying learners are equipped to ensure compliance with safety regulations, implement risk assessments, and maintain a safe working environment.

• National Diploma: Engineering: Civil, NQF Level 6

While not solely focused on project management, this qualification includes elements of construction project management within the broader context of civil engineering. Graduates are prepared to work on civil engineering projects, including project planning and execution.

None of these qualifications are targeted at capacitating a professional construction project manager. The "Specialised Occupational Diploma: Professional Construction Project Manager," was specifically designed to serve as a dedicated qualification that will underpin professional registration as a Construction Project Manager. In South Africa, the professional designation for a Construction Project Manager is often associated with the "Pr.CPM" (Professional Construction Project Manager) title. This designation is recognised and conferred by the recognised Professional body.

The introduction of a standardised occupational qualification for Construction Project Managers in South Africa holds immense potential for multifaceted benefits. For the construction sector, this qualification promises to elevate project management practices to new levels of efficiency and professionalism. It will empower professionals with comprehensive skills and up-to-date knowledge, resulting in streamlined project workflows, enhanced risk management, and improved project completion rates. Moreover, a more skilled workforce will ensure a safer working environment, reducing accidents and enhancing overall construction site safety.

On a broader societal level, this qualification will foster confidence among stakeholders, including clients and investors, leading to better project outcomes and greater public trust. In terms of the South African economy, a proficient construction workforce will attract increased investment, stimulate economic growth, and fortify the nation's capacity to undertake ambitious infrastructure projects, thus contributing significantly to the country's

sustainable development and progress.

This qualification will typically attract a diverse range of learners who aspire to excel in this field. The following are some of the typical learners who may embark on learning for this qualification:

• Recent Graduates: Individuals with degrees or diplomas in fields such as civil engineering, construction management, architecture, or related disciplines often pursue this qualification to enhance their knowledge and skills specifically in construction project management.
• Working Professionals: Experienced professionals already working in the construction industry, including engineers, site supervisors, and technicians, may choose to further their careers by obtaining a formal qualification in project management to take on leadership roles.
• Site Managers and Supervisors: Individuals who are already working in construction management roles but lack formal education in project management may seek this qualification to enhance their capabilities in overseeing projects and teams effectively.
• Construction Planners: Those responsible for project planning and scheduling, such as construction planners and schedulers, might pursue this qualification to strengthen their ability to create and manage project timelines and resources.
• Career Changers: Individuals from other fields who aspire to enter the construction industry as project managers may see this qualification as a pathway to transition into a new and promising career.
• Entrepreneurs: Individuals starting their own construction businesses or taking on project management roles within their existing businesses may pursue this qualification to ensure the successful execution of their projects.
• Suppliers and Contractors: Individuals who work closely with construction projects, such as suppliers, subcontractors, and consultants, may find value in understanding project management principles to better align with the industry's demands.
• Government and Regulatory Officials: Professionals in government agencies and regulatory bodies involved in overseeing construction projects may benefit from a construction project management qualification to better understand industry practices and standards.

In the design and development of this qualification, a range of key stakeholders would typically be involved to ensure its relevance, quality, and alignment with industry needs. Some of the key stakeholders that collaborated include:

Industry Associations, Professional Bodies, Academic Institutions, Employers and Construction Companies, Government Agencies, Trade Unions and Subject Matter Experts.

A person who has obtained this qualification can pursue a wide range of occupations within the construction industry. Some of the typical occupations that someone with this qualification can work in include:

• Construction Project Manager: As the most direct application, qualifying learners can work as project managers responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing construction projects. They manage resources, budgets, timelines, and teams to ensure successful project completion.
• Construction Site Manager: Individuals can take on the role of overseeing construction sites, ensuring that all activities are carried out efficiently, safely, and in compliance with regulations. Site managers also manage subcontractors, labour, and materials.
• Construction Contracts Manager: Professionals in this role focus on managing contracts, procurement, and legal aspects of construction projects. They negotiate contracts, handle dispute resolution, and ensure contractual obligations are met.
• Construction Planner/Scheduler: Qualifying learners can specialise in project planning and scheduling, creating detailed timelines, and ensuring that project activities are properly sequenced to meet deadlines and milestones.
• Cost Estimator: Individuals can work as cost estimators, responsible for accurately estimating the costs of construction projects, including materials, labour, equipment, and overhead.
• Construction Consultant: Qualifying learners may choose to work as consultants, providing expert advice to construction companies or clients on project management strategies, cost control, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance.
• Site Safety Manager: Safety is paramount in construction. Professionals can focus on construction site safety, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, conducting risk assessments, and implementing safety protocols.
• Facilities Manager: Individuals can manage the ongoing maintenance, operation, and improvement of completed construction projects, such as buildings and infrastructure.
• Construction Superintendent: This role involves supervising and coordinating daily construction activities on-site, ensuring work progresses as planned and addressing any issues that arise.
• Construction Project Coordinator: Qualifying learners can work in a coordinating capacity, assisting project managers in organizing and tracking project activities, resources, and communication.
• Construction Quality Control Manager: Professionals in this role are responsible for ensuring that construction projects meet quality standards and specifications, conducting inspections and audits throughout the project lifecycle.
• Infrastructure Project Manager: Individuals can specialise in managing large-scale infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, water treatment plants, and energy facilities.
• Real Estate Development Manager: Qualifying learners can work in real estate development, overseeing the planning, design, and execution of construction projects related to residential, commercial, or mixed-use developments.
• Construction Entrepreneur: Some individuals with this qualification may choose to start their own construction businesses, applying their project management skills to lead successful ventures.

Relevant professional bodies were consulted for this qualification. Holders of this designation are recognized as competent professionals capable of effectively managing construction projects in accordance with industry standards and best practices.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL for Access to Training

Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission.

RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme. Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated, and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills programme. Such an assessment must ensure that the learner is able to display the equivalent level of competencies required for access, based on the NQF level descriptors.

For exemption from modules through RPL

Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme through any means of formal, informal, or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded.

Entry Requirements

An NQF Level 7 qualification in construction and/or Building Sciences.

This qualification is made up of compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skill and Work Experience Modules

Knowledge Modules

• 132301-000-00-KM-01, Construction Project Initiation, Concept, and Feasibility, Level 8, 8 Credits.
• 132301-000-00-KM-02, Construction Project Design and Procurement, Level 8, 12 Credits.
• 132301-000-00-KM-03, Fundamentals of Construction Project Management, Level 8, 12 Credits,
• 132301-000-00-KM-04, Construction Project Implementation, Delivery and Close-out, Level 8, 16 Credits.

Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 48

Practical Skill Modules

• 132301-001-00-PM-01, Leadership and Team Management, Level 8, 5 Credits.
• 132301-001-00-PM-02, Strategic Thinking and Problem-Solving, Level 8, 5 Credits.
• 132301-001-00-PM-03, Client Relationship Management, Level 8, 5 Credits.
• 132301-001-00-PM-04, Complexity Thinking, Resilience and Tenacity, Level 8, 5 Credits.

Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 20

Work Experience Modules

• 132301-001-00-WM-01, Site Specific Processes Associated with Construction Project Inception, Level 8, 16 Credits.
• 132301-001-00-WM-02, Site Specific Processes Associated with Determining Construction Project Feasibility, Level 8, 16 Credits.
• 132301-001-00-WM-03, Site Specific Processes Associated with Enabling Construction Project Design, Level 8, 8 Credits.
• 132301-001-00-WM-04, Processes Associated with the Construction Procurement Stage, Level 8, 8 Credits.
• 132301-001-00-WM-05, Processes Associated with the Physical Construction Stage, Level 8, 48 Credits.
• 132301-001-00-WM-06, Processes Associated with the Construction Project Close-out Stage, Level 8, 16 Credits.

Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 112

1. Apply expert knowledge of conducting construction project feasibility studies to create, analyse, document, and present a detailed construction project feasibility report.
2. Interrogate multiple sources of knowledge and information to produce a detailed project brief based on an approved feasibility study and specific customer requirements.
3. Demonstrate the ability to take full responsibility for own work, decision-making and use of resources, to guide and lead a professional project team in producing a detailed construction project design including all the required architectural, structural, and engineering plans.
4. Apply ethical and professional practice, to guide and lead the selection and appointment of a full range of suppliers to meet the needs of a designed and approved construction project.
5. Identify, analyse, evaluate, critically reflect on, and address complex problems, to effectively coordinate and manage all stages of the construction process applying evidence-based solutions and theory-driven arguments in line with the project brief and customer requirements.
6. Access, processes and manage information to ensure that independently validated information is available and effectively utilised for guiding and managing the construction project close out phase, ensuring the sign off all required procedural, legal and contractual documents.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

ELO:1 Apply expert level knowledge of conducting construction project feasibility studies to create, analyse, document, and present a detailed construction project feasibility report.

• Facilitate the development of a clear construction project brief.
• Establish the procurement policy for the construction project.
• Assist the client with the procurement of required and appropriate professional consultants and agree upon the specific roles of these consultants.
• Establish site characteristics, rights, and constraints that will impact the design of the construction project, in collaboration with the client, professional consultants and regulatory authorities.
• Define consultant's scope of work and services that must be provided.
• Conclude the terms of the service level agreement with the client.
• Facilitate the creation of a schedule of required consents and approvals.
• Facilitate approval of all stage one construction documentation by the client.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

ELO:2 Interrogate multiple sources of knowledge and information to produce a detailed project brief based on an approved feasibility study and specific customer requirements.

• Advise the client on the requirements to appoint a health and safety consultant.
• Communicate the project brief to consultants and monitor the development of the concept and the viability analysis.
• Agree upon the format for cost control and reporting by all consultants.
• Prepare a documentation programme and an indicative construction programme.
• Coordinate the concepts and viability documentation for presentation to the client for approval.
• Facilitate approval of the concept and viability by the client.
• Facilitate approval of the concept and viability by statutory and regulatory authorities and bodies.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

ELO:3 Take full responsibility for own work, decision-making and use of resources, to guide and lead a professional project team in producing a detailed construction project design including all the required architectural, structural, and engineering plans.

• Agree on and implement the communication processes and procedures for the design and development of the project.
• Prepare, coordinate, agree on and monitor a detailed design and documentation programme.
• Conduct and record consultant and management meetings.
• Facilitate the inputs required by the health and safety consultant.
• Facilitate design reviews for compliance and cost control.
• Facilitate timeous technical co-ordination.
• Facilitate the approval of all stage 3 documentation by the client.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

ELO:4 Apply ethical and professional practice, to guide and lead the selection and appointment of a full range of suppliers to meet the needs of a designed and approved construction project.

• Recommend and agree on the procurement strategy for contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers with the client and other consultants.
• Prepare and agree on procurement programme.
• Advise the appropriate insurances to the client in conjunction with the other consultants.
• Coordinate and monitor the preparation of procurement documentation by consultants in accordance with the project procurement programme.
• Manage procurement processes and recommend contractors for approval by the client.
• Agree on the format and procedures for monitoring and control of the cost of completed work by the quantity surveyors.
• Coordinate the assembly of the contract documentation for signature and approval.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

ELO:5 Identify, analyse, evaluate, critically reflect on, and address complex problems, to effectively coordinate and manage all stages of the construction process applying evidence-based solutions and theory-driven arguments in line with the project brief and customer requirements.

• Establish site handover to the contractors is arranged and construction document issue process.
• Appoint sub-contractors by the contractor on behalf of the client, as instructed.
• Monitor, review and approve the preparation of the construction programme by the contractor.
• Receive, coordinate, and monitor entitlements that arise from changes required to the construction programme are adjudicated and approval of all contract documentation provided by the contractors.
• Determine and agree on the quality assurance (QA) procedures and monitor the implementation of the QA procedures by all consultants and contractors.
• Monitor the preparation and auditing of the contractor's health and safety plan and the approval of the plan by the Health and Safety consultant.
• Monitor the preparation of the environmental management plan by the environmental consultant.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

ELO:6 Access, processes and manage information to ensure that independently validated information is available and effectively utilised for guiding and managing the construction project close out phase, ensuring the sign off of all required procedural, legal and contractual documents

• Coordinate and monitor rectification of defects.
• Manage procurement of operations and maintenance manuals, guarantees, and warranties.
• Manage preparation of as-built drawings and documentation.
• Manage procurement of outstanding statutory certificates.
• Issue completion certificates.
• Manage agreement of final accounts and prepare and present a project close-out report.

Integrated Assessment

Integrated Formative Assessment

Formative assessments are conducted throughout the training of learners. A range of formal, non-formal, and informal ongoing assessment activities are used to focus on teaching and learning outcomes to improve learner attainment.

Formative assessments are conducted continuously by the facilitator to feed into further learning, to identify strengths and weaknesses, and to ensure the learner's ability to apply knowledge, skills, and workplace experience gained.

Formative assessments are conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider (SDP), and a variety of ongoing assessment methods may be used, for example, quizzes, assignments, tests, scenarios, role play, interviews. Continuous feedback must be provided.

Integrated Summative Assessment

Integrated assessment involves all the different types of assessment tasks required for a particular qualification, part-qualification, or occupational skills programme, such as written assessment of theory and practical demonstration of competence. To achieve this, the Internal Assessment Criteria (IAC) for all modules as found in the QCTO curriculum document must be followed.

An accredited SDP should implement a well-designed, formal, relevant, final internal Summative Assessment strategy for all modules to prepare learners for the EISA. These assessments evaluate learning achievements relating to the achievement of each module of the relevant components of the qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme.

Internal Summative Assessments are developed, moderated, and conducted by the SDP at the end of each module or after integration of relevant modules, e.g., applied knowledge tests, workplace tasks, practical demonstrations, simulated tasks/demonstrations, projects, case studies, etc.

The results of these final formal summative assessments must be recorded. These results, which include the Statement of Work Experience results, where applicable, contribute to the Statement of Results (SoR) that is a requirement for admission to the EISA. An SoR, using the template provided by the Quality Partner, is issued by the accredited SDP for qualifications and part-qualifications. The SDP must produce a valid Statement of Results for each learner, indicating the result and the date on which the competence in each module, of each component, was achieved. Learners are required to produce this SoR, together with their ID document or alternative ID document, at the point of the EISA.