RETURN OF THE MASTER BUILDER

As projects become more complex and clients demand streamlined design and construction approaches, more consulting companies are attempting to add hard-dollar construction to their scope. Many consulting engineering firms have attempted to expand their services by acquiring a construction firm, but making this quantum jump has many pitfalls. Consultants and constructors tend to view many things--the client relationship, customer service, budgeting, scheduling, and management, for example--in different if not opposite ways. However, if these barriers are understood and addressed, success can be achieved to the benefit of the firm, its clientele, and the industry.