US CONSTRUCTION COORDINATOR

When it comes to contracting a construction proJect there are a number of procurement methodologies that are common in the us but are not necessarily the same in Ireland, explains Jim Bannon.

With Irish development entrepreneurs moving into the US market, one of their major challenges is finding the right in-situ representative who understands the development, design and construction marketplace. To help Irish developers in the US, a company headed by an Irish immigrant and UK and US registered architect, is offering his services and has the skills and knowledge base to assist Irish developers with their leap into the US market.

Representing Clients

DACORI - Design and Construction Owner’s (Client) Representative Inc - headed by Belfast architect Jim Bannon was established to act as the liaison between the professional design team, contractors and the owner or client. Bannon has a Diploma in Architecture from the Queen’s University of Belfast and a Masters Degree in Construction Management from the University of Ulster. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects and the Royal Institute of British Architects.

From Inception To Completion

“My company is neither architect nor contractor but functions exclusively as the client representative coordinating the project and its participants from inception to completion,” says Bannon. Clients come to Bannon because they have very little knowledge of US construction procedures and because they require someone to coordinate their project.

“I would go through the process of finding an architect on their behalf. I negotiate all elements of the project for clients, arranging construction drawings, coordinating the procurement process and bringing the contractor on board. In essence I manage the whole project from start to finish with experience on individual projects in excess of $200 million”, Bannon explains.

Negotiating Projects

It is often the case that Irish clients come to the United States without prior knowledge of the development, design and construction processes of the country. Bannon has a wealth of knowledge in this area ranging from negotiating the architect design fee to determining the construction procurement methodology.

“DACORI through prudent and strategic negotiation has saved clients hundreds of thousands of dollars and more than paid for their services through these savings. Any Irish entrepreneurs considering development in the Americas can be assured that DACORI offers a safe pair of hands to coordinate their project and bring it to a successful conclusion.

If you are considering development, design or construction in America or the Caribbean or for further information on DACORI, telephone 001 386 341 2527 or email dacori.bannon@hotmail.com Jim will be in Ireland and available for meetings from 14th December until the New Year.