California Supplemental (CSE) Practice Exam

Who is primarily responsible for keeping the owner informed of the progress of work when a construction manager is involved?

1. The architect

2. The contractor

3. The construction manager

4. The owner themselves

The correct answer is: The construction manager

The construction manager plays a pivotal role in the oversight of construction projects and serves as the critical link between the owner, contractors, and other stakeholders. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that the project runs smoothly, on time, and within budget, while also keeping the owner informed of the progress at every stage of the process. This responsibility includes regular updates regarding scheduling, any potential issues that arise, and how the workers are meeting the project specifications. By facilitating clear communication between the owner and the various parties involved, the construction manager ensures that the owner's expectations are aligned with the project developments. In contrast to the roles of the architect, contractor, or the owner, the construction manager’s focus is specifically on managing the construction process and acting as the owner’s representative. While an architect may provide aesthetic and design updates, they do not typically manage the operational aspects, and the contractor is primarily focused on executing the work rather than communicating project management updates. Hence, the construction manager is essential in fulfilling the owner's need for information throughout the project.