Estimate Smooth Planning

The planning and design phases are two of the most vital building blocks in the construction life cycle, and strategists in these stages are largely responsible for the proper initiation of the contract as a whole. Because the materials created in these steps are constantly referenced throughout the project’s evolution, accurate planning and design is essential, no matter the scope or size of an initiative. Still, engineers and contractors often struggle to get those materials perfect, and that can lead to miscommunication down the line.

Using relevant, localized construction cost estimating data is one way to ensure a smooth planning and design cycle. It can also improve the quality and consistency of the project. Here are a few ways to enhance a project’s life cycle, beginning with strong cost estimating data during the planning and design stages.

1. Closer alignment with budgets: Research materials from Carnegie Mellon University explain why estimation is a pivotal part of any construction project. “According to the American Association of Cost Engineers, cost engineering is defined as that area of engineering practice where engineering judgment and experience are utilized in the application of scientific principles and techniques to the problem of cost estimation, cost control and profitability.”
2. More room for experimentation: Planners, designers, architects and engineers may wish they had more time to try out different methods or prototypes before submitting a final version of their work. With improved cost estimating data, these creative stakeholders have plenty of opportunities to experiment with various strategic approaches because material prices and labor requirements are clear from the outset.
   Reduced risk of waste and overruns: Arguably the most appealing benefit of more accurate estimating data is the mitigation of common risk factors such as wasted mix and cost overruns, which often result from poor price coordination at the outset of a project. In some cases, accurate cost estimations can even combat risk in later phases of a project—such as subcontracting with the striping company or guardrail installation—improving on-site coordination and reducing the likelihood of troublesome change orders.
3. In conclusion, planning and design stakeholders need to lock down reliable and relevant sources of cost estimating data to ensure their project stages run as smoothly as possible. With these resources, a new project will start off on the right foot.

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