What is the role of a construction manager's quality management system and should it be standardized?

Abstract

The need for quality management systems is being increasingly acknowledged by general craftsmen and construction managers. The construction manager’s quality management system (QMS) is his most valuable tool and is a system of organization and processes where the construction manager documents what needs to be done, he executes what has been documented and then confirms that the task has been completed with supporting documents. It ensures that the construction manager can achieve its objectives of building a structure according to lawsand regulations, while performing his duties as the manager of the entire construction project. The study aims to clarify and to investigate the purpose and role of the construction managers quality management system and its importance and effect on structures, as well as clarify if there is a need for a standardized quality management system. A blend of qualitative and quantitative research methods was used, with interviews and a questionnaire.There are various QMSs available for a fee, but there is not a ready-made system available for new construction managers, merely instructions on how to make their own system. The main conclusion was that there is a significant need for a standardized quality management system for independent construction managers and smaller companies. It is crucial for the upholding of standards in structures that there be a clearer standardization of concise quality management systems.There does not appear to be a difference between construction managers who work according to their own QMS and those who have bought a QMS. Experienced construction managers seem to be using their QMS correctly, but inspection forms seem to differ between QMSs, since they make it themselves in accordance to HMS instructions. The decisive results show that there is a great need and demand for standardization. By standardizing the basic quality management system for all construction managers, it should ensure equal quality for all structures and are easily comparable across the country.