As you examined in your reading this week, planning consists of the processes required to define the scope; identify objectives, activities, durations, costs, procurement, risks, and quality measures; and create formal construction project schedule documents. While time consuming, planning is absolutely necessary to ensure the success of a construction project. But, do all firms plan in the same fashion? An older, existing firm might rely heavily on historical data, while a start-up firm might use other measures to plan for a project.

Consider the following scenario: In your pursuit to find a position as a construction manager, you receive two job offers. The first offer is with a new start-up construction firm; your second offer is with a more established construction firm. As you begin to weigh both options, you create a pro/con list. From your perspective, the benefits to working at each firm are the same. One of your friends suggests that you consider your potential work experience in both firms. Project planning will be a large function of your position at both firms. As a result, you decide to research the planning processes in start-up and established firms. After your research is complete, you will weigh the advantages and disadvantages of being responsible for project planning at both.

Based on your analysis of the potential construction project planning processes at both firms, which job are you more likely to take? Why?