Are you new to the construction business? Are you a bit lost when it comes to how to be a construction project manager?
Because there are so many moving pieces in construction, many things can go wrong. You need to make sure that you have the knowledge you need before you’re a construction manager.
We’ve put together a list of five must-read construction books to help you out in the field! After reading these you’ll have the knowledge everyone wishes they had about construction management.
1. “Construction Business Management: What Every Construction Contractor, Builder & Subcontractor Needs to Know”
The writer of this construction book, Nick Ganaway, was a general contractor for over 25 years. He has the experience that an author needs to write a book like this.
He lays out all of the lessons he’s learned throughout the years, both the easy and hard ways, so that you can learn the lessons without making the same mistakes he did.
In this book, you’ll read all about:
- Contract terms and conditions.
- Getting paid what you deserve.
- Characteristics of success as a construction project manager.
- How to choose accountants and lawyers for your business.
Construction project management resources from someone who was in the field for years is a great way to learn more about the industry. However, whether you are new to the construction industry or a student learning about what construction entails, this is a must-read.
2. “Construction Management Jumpstart”
“Construction Management Jumpstart” by Barbara J. Jackson is for newbies in the industry. Jackson works at the California Polytechnic State University and has experience as a contractor and a design-builder for the industry.
Since you cannot learn everything you need to know in the classroom, this book will prepare you for the field. Jackson discusses how the construction industry is expected to grow by over 15% this year alone and tells you what you need to know to keep up.
It has a step-by-step guide for how to manage your crew from the get-go. You’ll also learn about new technological advancements in the industry so you are prepared for all different types of projects.
The book also lays out how to evaluate your performance and assess risk with different projects. The best part? At the end of every chapter, there is a review guide to ensure you understand what you need to know.
3. “Construction Field Guide”
If you’re looking for a general book about everything in construction project management, look no further than the “Construction Field Guide.”
This book has 504 pages of all types of information about construction. Sounds intriguing, right?
It may not be the most interesting read, but it is jam-packed with need-to-know information about the industry. You’ll learn information about financing, insurance, planning your projects, quality control, building codes, safety, and relationships in the industry. Each section goes in depth about each topic, so even if you are new to the field, you’ll be able to get a grasp of everything.
If you have experience in the industry, you may like this book because it goes in depth about filing legal claims and anything you need to know about the engineering side of construction.
4. “Running a Successful Construction Company (For Pros, by Pros)”
“Running a Successful Construction Company (For Pros, by Pros)” by David Gerstel discusses the ins and outs of construction companies and how to be successful without an MBA. And he walks you through exactly how to do it in this book, which is one of the leading books in the construction field!
As someone who may be coming from being a construction worker to running your own company, you’ll have to learn about the business side of the construction work. Gerstel will help you understand all of that.
In his book, Gerstel will teach you how to write contracts, pick appropriate construction jobs for bidding, and purchase the right insurance for the job.
In addition to all that, he’ll teach you how to hire the right employees and build a company that is successful because of the teamwork and safety that you provide.
5. “Building Construction: Project Management, Construction Administration, Drawings, Specs, Detailing Tips, Schedules, Checklists, and Secrets Others Don’t Tell You: Architectural Practice Simplified, 2E”
Gang Chen is the author of this crucial reference book that you need to add to your bookshelf. Chen has worked on hospital buildings and healthcare with over one billion dollars in construction costs, as well as building high-end homes and local shopping centers.
As a veteran of over 20 years in construction, he offers a ton of expertise and valuable knowledge about the field. He wrote this book for construction project managers, designers, developers, and general contractors who are interested in DIY construction.
Chen will teach you all about developing your construction business, managing the number of projects you have coming in, keeping your workplace safe, coordinating with government agencies, and working with subcontractors. He’ll also teach you more in depth things like design and programming, which is not always something you can find in construction books.
This book is easy to understand and will walk you through everything you need to know without further confusing you. You will be set up with a strong foundation for construction management after reading this book.
Are You Ready for Your Construction Project Manager Role?
After reading these must-read books, you’ll be knowledgeable about most of the construction field. However, there’s always more you can learn!
Although these books can help show the ways of an effective project manager, the learning shouldn’t end there. At Bangert, we can help you with your project management software, contact us today!