What best defines the role of a project manager in landscape architecture?

The role of a project manager in landscape architecture primarily revolves around the oversight of project development, which includes managing the project's schedule and budget. This position is critical as it ensures that the project is completed on time and within financial constraints, while also aligning the work with the client's vision and expectations.

Project managers coordinate various aspects of the project, including liaising with different teams such as designers, engineers, and contractors, to ensure that all elements come together smoothly. They are responsible for developing a timeline that outlines key milestones and deliverables, and for monitoring progress to address any issues that may arise to keep the project on track. Moreover, financial management is crucial; project managers are tasked with managing resources effectively, ensuring that the project stays within its budget while still meeting quality standards.

The other options focus on specific tasks that may be part of a landscape project but do not encompass the broader and more strategic responsibilities carried out by project managers. Designers typically handle the aesthetic elements, while tasks like conducting soil tests and selecting plants are usually conducted by technical specialists. Engaging with clients and stakeholders is certainly an important task, but it is just one component of the project manager’s extensive role, which is centered on holistic project oversight.