In a competitive bid situation, the general contractor's first priority is controlling construction costs. The actions the general contractor take focus on adequate control, effective communication, efficient use of resources, and prevention of delays. (MLF)

Successful completion of a construction project requires the efforts of a team composed of the owner, architect, and contractor. A preconstruction conference can clarify the roles of the team as specified in the design contract. (MLF)

A construction management firm and the architects working with the firm provided San Diego with ten elementary schools that were delivered on schedule, within cost, and met or exceeded the basic design criteria. (Author/MLF)

This guide is intended for use in teaching a course in construction systems. The course, which is intended for students in grades 9 and 10, examines construction technology in terms of a sequential process that includes the planning, building, and servicing of structures. The first two sections discuss the guide's development within the framework…