In the construction industry, the terms Project Manager and Design Manager are sometimes used interchangeably. They should not be. Understanding the difference helps you hire the right person, structure your team correctly and avoid costly gaps in accountability.

What Does a Project Manager Do?

A Project Manager (PM) is responsible for the overall delivery of the project — cost, programme, risk, stakeholder management, procurement and contract administration.

What Does a Design Manager Do?

A Design Manager (DM) is responsible specifically for the design process — coordinating the design team, managing the design programme, ensuring design quality, and making sure that information is produced to the right standard at the right time.

5 Signs Your Design Team Needs a Design Manager

• Design coordination meetings have no clear owner.
• The design programme keeps slipping.
• Information is being issued late or to the wrong revision.
• Design changes are not being properly tracked.
• The client keeps asking for updates you cannot provide.

How JC Virtual PMs Can Help

JC Virtual PMs provides both Project Management and Design Management services to SMEs across the UK. Get in touch to discuss your requirements.