Author’s Supervision and Technical Supervision: the Difference in Simple Terms

During construction, two types of oversight are usually involved – author’s supervision and technical supervision. They are often confused, although their functions are different.

🔹 Author’s supervision (architectural supervision)

This is oversight provided by the designer. Its purpose is to ensure that construction is carried out exactly as specified by the project and design documentation. A simple example: The design specifies a particular facade or a structural solution. If the contractor wants to change a material or a connection detail, this must be agreed with the design author. The designer confirms whether the change is acceptable without compromising the facility.

🔹 Technical supervision

This is oversight provided by the client. Its purpose is to check the quality of construction works, materials, quantities, and compliance with building codes. A simple example: Technical supervision checks whether concrete has been poured correctly, whether the insulation thickness meets the requirements, whether the works have been executed properly, and whether quantities in the work completion certificates have been overstated.

In short: author’s supervision ensures compliance with the design solutions, technical supervision ensures the quality and correctness of construction works. Both types of supervision operate in parallel and complement each other to ensure that the facility is delivered safely, legally, and exactly as intended in the project.