Even the smallest of construction projects is an incredibly complex process that involves thousands of components.
- For the most part these components are stock products that are custom fit to yield a building, process plant or other facility. Unlike an assembly line for appliances or automobiles where all pieces are designed to precisely fit, in a given order at an optimum speed, the construction process is unique for every stud, pipe and wire that is installed. Where a time and motion study can determine productivity for an entire factory based production run, estimators are faced with unique conditions that affect each piece of the puzzle known as a construction project. And the conditions change for each project.
In a perfect world of construction, architects and engineers will have plans that fully and clearly depict the work scope.
- The specifications will clearly and concisely show the materials required. The plans, technical specifications and contractual requirements will not have any conflicts. But, it is not a perfect world. The only people that seem to read know the details and the conflicts are the estimators. They have to study every plan, section and detail on the drawings. The have to read and understand every page of the specifications.
In recent times, the estimators working for the contractors are the final quality control check in the design delivery process. They are the only ones that have done this in-depth analysis. This is why so many questions are asked at bid time on projects. This is why so many projects are “designed by amendment.”
Owners and developers need to re-institute design controls and oversight to make sure bid packages are issued that minimize questions and amendments.
- These controls and oversights have been missing for many years. There are simple, straightforward and cost effective solutions that can be implemented. It doesn’t require software, hardware or special systems with massive amounts of spending. It doesn’t necessarily require hiring numerous extra staff with specialized expertise or retaining large firms to oversee the pre-construction activities.
All it takes is knowledge. Many experienced estimators have this knowledge. It can be learned and applied by others.
Oh By the Way… A step towards a perfect construction world would be plans and specifications that represented the true scope and extent of the work. It would help construction projects to be delivered in a cost effective and timely manner.
