Projects
U.S.-China Project Management Exchange
Development Services, LLC, under the leadership of Terry Brooks, Jr., AIA, undertook a notable project in collaboration with the Eisenhower Foundation’s People to People Prime Project. This initiative brought together a diverse group of professionals, including architects, engineers, and project managers from the United States and the Middle East, to engage in a cultural and professional exchange with counterparts in China. The delegation visited Beijing, Xi’an, and Hong Kong to discuss and compare project management practices. In the U.S., project management often involves a competitive bidding process that allows multiple consultants to submit proposals, fostering innovation and cost-efficiency. Conversely, in China, the government centrally manages the entire project development process, from design to construction, eliminating the need for competitive bidding.
The project highlighted significant differences in project management approaches between the two countries, offering valuable insights into the advantages and challenges of each system. The U.S. model’s competitive bidding process ensures a fair opportunity for consultants, encouraging diverse solutions and competition. On the other hand, China’s centralized approach streamlines decision-making and implementation, potentially leading to quicker project completion. This cross-cultural engagement provided a unique learning experience for all participants, emphasizing the importance of understanding and integrating various administrative practices in global development. Terry Brooks underscored the value of these exchanges in enhancing professional networks and improving project management practices across borders, demonstrating Development Services’ commitment to fostering international collaboration and knowledge sharing.
