Managing Risk in Construction Projects

Investment in any new project invariably carries risk but the construction industry is subject to more risk and uncertainty than perhaps any other industry.

This guide for construction managers, project managers and quantity surveyors as well as for students shows how the risk management process improves decision-making. Managing Risk in Construction Projects offers practical guidance on identifying, assessing and managing risk and provides a sound basis for effective decision-making in conditions of uncertainty.

The book focuses on theoretical aspects of risk management but also clarifies procedures for undertaking and utilising decisions. This blend of theory and practice is the real message of the book and, with a strong authorship team of practitioners and leading academics, the book provides an authoritative guide for practitioners having to manage real projects.

It discusses a number of general concepts, including projects, project phases, and risk attitude before introducing various risk management techniques. This third edition has been extended to recognize the reality of multi-project or programme management and the risks in this context; to highlight the particular problems of risk in international joint ventures; and to provide more coverage of PFI and PPP.  

With case studies and examples of good practice, the book offers the distilled knowledge of over 100 man-years of experience in working on all aspects of project risk, giving sound practical guidance on identifying, assessing and managing risk.

Nigel J. Smith is Professor of Project & Transport Infrastructure Management at the School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds

Tony Merna is Senior Partner of Oriel Group Practice and a lecturer for Manchester Business School Worldwide.

Paul Jobling is a managing consultant with Kingsfield Consulting