Constructing a building is only one piece of the puzzle. Alter Construction Management views the process through multiple lenses – those of real estate, construction, and operations -- to provide sound, long-term advice. Alter Construction Management offers options for cultural and educational institutions, non-profit organizations and entrepreneurial businesses which want to create facilities that are unique and well-suited to their core missions.

Alter Construction Management guides you through the process of selecting exactly the right options to assure your project’s success.

Program management is ideal for owners who are experts in their own industries, and must concentrate on their core business rather than construction. As program managers, Alter Construction Management manages the day-to-day details and supports the owner’s management team -- integrating long-range facility use with real estate investment strategies. The program manager assumes full project responsibility, including building-use strategy, architecture, design, and construction. Compensation is cost-for-services, plus a percentage.

Our seasoned program-management team works to maximize your investment through every business cycle. Involving us during the earliest stages means we can realize substantial savings on your behalf.

A construction management agent was the answer when owners felt the need for a professional who could supervise the construction process for them. In this arrangement, the owner authorizes the agent to act as its representative to interact with all construction contractors. This is used less frequently than the at-risk option, because banks require a guaranteed price for the completed project to issue the requisite loan. Compensation is either a lump sum, or a lump sum with cost-plus provision.

Construction management is most successful with small projects where price guarantees are not essential. Lump-sum bids are less likely with larger and more complex jobs. As agents, Alter Construction Management brings our full slate of design, technical, planning and communications skills to assure smooth relationships and on-time project delivery.

In this method, the construction-management team functions virtually the same as a general contractor. The construction-management firm assumes some financial risk for the final cost, and hires project subcontractors directly. Compensation is a lump sum or cost-plus; the construction manager directly controls the budget, which can add up to significant savings.

This approach is most successful for owners whose projects require a guaranteed maximum price, or who benefit from the direct cost controls provided. As seasoned professionals, Alter Construction Management has completed premier projects using this device and can escort you through all the steps.

Design/build unites the architect and construction management functions to simplify and expedite the construction process. A single firm develops the project design, secures all governmental approvals, then hires subcontractors to complete the work. Compensation is a lump sum or a guaranteed maximum price.

Design/build is recommended for owners who want a central source of responsibility, but feel capable of creating their own goals and evaluating pertinent criteria. Alter Construction Management’s full resources combine innovative design with extensive practical construction experience.

The most common construction method, this process can be summed up as design, bid and build. The owner hires an architect, and then gives the completed plans to the lowest bidder who will deliver the building. Compensation is a lump sum specified in the bid, although other arrangements can be made in the lump-sum cost.

This method is suitable for owners who have significant construction experience, can negotiate with architects and contractors, and absorb unexpected costs. Alter Construction Management’s general-contracting track record means that we absorb risk so you can concentrate on your core competencies.