MSP DUPLEX PROJECT - ENUGU

 Today we started excavation of foundation trenches for this twin duplex project.  Located in a choice area in the heart of Enugu metropolis, the project promises to compete with neighboring high brow properties.

Designed by Arc Kosi Emmanuel Chukwujindu, The five(5) bedroom duplex features an entrance porch, that is butressed by two dominant columns finished with brick facing and covered overhead by a projecting family sit-out on the first floor. It features an ante room, a spacious living room and dining area, kitchen, a laundry and a guest bedroom on the ground floor and four cross-ventilated spacious bedrooms on the first floor with an open plan family lounge that has a smaller private balcony as well as it leads to the larger sit-out in the front.

Project timeline : 4 months

Location : Enugu State

Client : Undisclosed

Consultants : Cadright Architecture / Development Partners

PROJECT MANAGER : ISSUES WITH THE STAFF

Posted by :  Kosi Emmanuel Chukwujindu

This post is a sequel to the earlier post: "Project Architect: resolving staff conflict in site"

from left: Architect, Carpenter

As a construction project manager, issues with staff are going to abound. What matters in the end is still Results!

In my experience, workers over time tend to grow too friendly and thence become rebellious. They suddenly seem to have got a hunch that you have been manipulating them into doing 'your' Work while you get all the 'big' money. This feeling if not checked leads them into acting abnormally uncooperative and even ready to end the relationship.

As the Architect, and project  manager, you have the responsibility of keeping your site in control so that you can continue to produce results, Especially if you work for a senior Architect who has entrusted the site in your management.

Here are a few of my own  tips on managing crisis in the site:

1. Understand that; when all is said and done, violence or force benefits nobody. With this in mind, you are left with the effective tool : diplomacy. Use diplomacy to coerce your workers into doing whatever you want without realising they are all players in 'your' game.

2. Your boss expects results, results and more results, he hardly has time to attend to reports from you or your staff, he believes you should Handle whatever situation arises on site with minimum supervision. Dont prove him wrong! 

3. Preach and emphasize teamwork to your workers. They would think twice before starting up a fire next time, if they see you as a brother instead of a boss.

4. Remain aloof, but make sure you are the smartest guy in the site. No tricks can evade you unless you let it for a higher cause. Use occasional little favours like careless tips, relaxed timing or bonus pays, to buy the hearts of your workers in preparation for the day you will make huge demands from them.