What is Construction Management (CM) in Japan? A Comprehensive Guide
2025.11.28 Fri
CM (Construction Management)
Construction projects—whether for offices, commercial spaces, factories, research labs, schools, hospitals, or hotels—require a series of complex steps from initial planning to final completion. As project scale increases, so does complexity, often leading to unexpected challenges.
To navigate these challenges and ensure successful outcomes, many organizations are adopting the Construction Management (CM) method. This column explores the essentials of CM: what it is, how it evolved, and how it can be implemented.
What is Construction Management (CM) in Japan?
Construction Management (CM) is a professional service that ensures the successful execution of construction projects. In Japan, this method involves a highly specialized expert known as a Construction Manager (CMr) who supports the client (project owner) throughout the entire project lifecycle. The CMr maintains technical neutrality and provides guidance from the initial concept & planning phase through design, procurement, construction and maintenance after completion.
The CMr handles:
• Project operations
• Quality control
• Cost management
• Schedule management
Why CM is Needed
Consider a scenario where Company A plans to build a new factory. The company must contract both a designer and a contractor. However, if Company A lacks construction expertise, it may face challenges in communication and coordination, potentially leading to misaligned project outcomes or increased risks. By engaging a CMr, the company gains a technical advisor who acts on its behalf.
History of Construction Management in Japan
CM originated in the United States in the 1940s, evolving from manufacturing management techniques developed during the Industrial Revolution. As projects became more complex in the 1960s, CM gained popularity as a way to alleviate client’s burden.
In Japan, CM began gaining attention in the late 1980s during the economic bubble, when large-scale projects became more complex. After a temporary slowdown, CM method revived in the late 1990s. In 2001, the Construction Management Association of Japan was founded, and in 2002, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism issued CM guidelines. Today, CM is widely applied in both public and private sector projects across Japan.
Project Process Using CM Method
CM can be introduced at any phase, but early adoption yields better cost and quality control. Here’s how CM supports each phase:
1. Planning Phase
- Develop project policies, overall schedule, and budget
- Consider project delivery methods
- Prepare internal and external briefing materials
2. Designer Selection Phase
- Propose selection methods
- Call for design proposals
- Develop evaluation criteria
- Support contract negotiations
3. Design Phase
- Review cost estimates
- Propose VECD
- Manage design costs
4. Contractor Selection Phase
- Propose project delivery methods
- Review estimates
- Negotiate prices
- Review contract terms & conditions
5. Construction Phase
- Monitor progress
- Review additional work estimates
- Attend final inspections
The earlier CM is adopted, the more effective it becomes. If you’re planning a construction project in Japan, consider the CM method to improve outcomes.