Uniqueness of Japanese Construction Industry
Generally in Japan, the framework of construction project is rather simple comparing to other countries. The number of major stakeholders is just three, the owner, the architect firm and the construction company. Normally the architect firm controls the structure design and MEP design as a part of their main architectural design service scope. The construction company undertakes all of construction works as a whole with a lump sum contract amount. It is rare that the main part of construction works are separated into several packages and those are sent out for individual bids as the owner’s direct procurement It can be said, in Japan, that major part of the scope in project management service is up to the stage where the owner gains the most competitive price from a potential contractor.
This lump sum contract always makes challenges and difficulties to uncover the structure of construction cost. However, on the other hand, because of it, the contractor is able to take full responsibility for quality, schedule and safety in the construction works.
Tips for Construction Project in Japan
It goes without saying that procurement strategy is one of the most important management plans in a project. We can say that competency of Japanese contractor is relatively high. In the planning of procurement strategy, it is critically important for the owner to acknowledge characteristics of the construction industry in Japan and to achieve a good balance between making an effective use of contractor’s’ know-how and increasing the transparency of construction cost.
Our Services
In Japan, it has not been traditional that the project owner assigns a third party as its representative. Thus few professional for such role was available within the country. We are now armed with variety of knowledge both in local specialties and international standards, and fulfill this gap and offer a wide range of professional services to our clients. We are an independent consultant without any commercial interest in design development and construction execution. Hence our service contains no conflict between the owner’s intent and deign works/construction works Unbiased advice is most valuable to the project owner. We are providing our client with;
- The practical advice on the most optimal solutions for project planning in the perspective of cost, schedule and quality.
- The most effective procurement strategy from professional perspective.
- The seamless assistance in establishing budget plan, cost estimates, verifying bids and negotiating contract.
- Workable overall milestone schedule and supervision to the project progress from its commencement until the completion.
- Value engineering services.
- Project management services as the representative of the project owner.
