When you think of infrastructure, the first thing that comes to mind is large-scale construction projects such as roads, bridges, water supply systems, airports, and power plants. These are the fundamental facilities and systems that enable society to function. They are also the key to economic development and social welfare as they connect businesses with customers, workers with their jobs, and communities with their opportunities.
Unlike other construction projects, infrastructure projects involve public financing and are heavily regulated by the government or a centralized authority. They often require large investments from private or public sources and may take years to plan, design, build, and operate. Moreover, they are subject to a lot of challenges like changing market conditions, political changes, and environmental concerns.
A project manager for infrastructure manages the entire life cycle of a major building or system. They help define goals, manage risks, deliver on schedule, and ensure compliance with all applicable laws. Additionally, they manage stakeholder relations and maintain an accurate budget. They also ensure that the project meets all quality standards. Furthermore, they also handle other technical aspects like conceptual design, engineering design, CAD drafting, and scheduling.
There are many different types of infrastructure projects. Some of them are categorized as hard, while others are considered soft. Examples of hard infrastructure include railways, highways, and ports. These are essential for the transport of goods and people. Water infrastructure includes reservoirs, treatment plants, and water distribution networks. Waste management infrastructure includes waste disposal and recycling plants. Social infrastructure includes hospitals, schools, and parks.