Cost estimators are a valuable component of construction as they give out the potential costs of a specific project. For a better estimation, estimators have to interact with architects and engineers who design the projects to come up with detailed estimates. These roles are important as they ensure a smooth working process of projects which are then completed as planned, within the given budget. This paper seeks to discuss the various roles that estimators play concerning architects and engineers in construction projects at every stage.
Schematic Design Phase
In the first stages of an architectural design, an architect produces diagrams to define the size, general extent, and spatial connections inside a building. Meanwhile, engineers also decide about the basic constructions, such as water supply, heating, ventilation, and lighting systems.
These initial concept plans are also reviewed by the construction estimating companies estimator to give an idea of the implication of some of the design options in terms of cost. If some aspects of a particular plan drive up the cost too much, the design team can change its plans while they are still in their early stage. There are cases where the estimator may suggest using different materials or ways to reduce the cost. This input is very imperative because it will enable the design team to identify and focus on the important aspects of the project when cost constraint is a primary consideration.
Design Development Phase
In the design development process, architects and engineers continue to put more specifics on what has been drawn out and outlined. When it comes to Floor plans, these are design layouts that depict actual room dimensions, door and window placements, and furniture arrangements. Conventional systems or subsystems that include mechanical, electrical, and plumbing ones are described. Exterior elevation is the view of the building frontage from outside or the part of the building that faces outside.
It means that there is a clear path for the estimator to be able to offer a better probabilistic cost estimate in contrast to the plain first-order estimate that can be perceived as a basic working budget. Running estimates at this phase provides the team with an opportunity to alter its direction because expenses are likely to go up. The estimator may need to revisit the designers to gain a better understanding of what is required to estimate all parts that are required in the overall plan.
Construction Documentation Phase
During the documentation phase, architects provide technical drawings that contain information such as measurements, the type of materials to be used, finishes, and even equipment. Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing personnel develop system designs and complete final engineering. These shall be used in procuring the legal permits to commence construction and also in the physical construction process.
In this phase, the construction estimators and designer provide a quantity take-off and cost estimate of the project. They study all the construction drawings and specifications that are provided. This is done through take-offs whereby the estimator comes up with accurate quantities of material, number of man hours, plant and equipment, and subcontractors services required. Unit costs are applied to establish an accurate working price.
The estimator sends this estimate to ensure that the design is in line with the owner’s pockets. This is why, when the estimate is too high compared with the budget, the estimator gives recommendations regarding the possibility of economizing. This could lead to design modifications to reduce the extent of specific architectural elements or to decrease complications. Value engineering at this stage helps the team satisfy expectations with cost justifications without compromising the end goal.
Procurement Phase
In the procurement stage, there is the preparation of bidding documents to invite and award general construction contractors. The architect and engineers will add any final changes to the design because of some final estimates with the project.
The estimator in this position advises that bidding documents contain requisite scopes of work to facilitate valid cost comparisons with other contractors. The estimator may also make recommendations on the bids that have been submitted and the analysis of the bids about whether they look reasonable for the scope or whether some products seem to be missing from the bid. Thus, the estimator acts as an independent cost consultant to the owner, guaranteeing the selection of a worthy contractor in the light of the competitive bidding environment.
Construction Phase
During this phase, the architect and engineers come back into play to explain the expectations, assess the quality of work, and manage change orders. In this case, the estimator helps in cost control throughout construction, which may range from a few months or so.
In cases where the contractor raises issues, the estimator assists in placing a price tag when it comes to change orders. Where the change is related to a large and detailed change, the estimator shall work with the designers to be able to understand what has changed and make his/her cost estimate based on the new design. An estimator’s accurate analysis of the variance instills confidence during the negotiation of change orders affecting the schedule or cost.
The estimator, through acting as an interface between the design professionals and the contractor and as the official cost reporting person of the team, makes it easy for the construction estimating services team to stay on the correct financial path with the project.
Conclusion
It is hence important for estimators to always engage architects and engineers so that they come up with credible predictions that translate to realistic construction realities. In each of the phases, the estimator has to work hand in hand with designers to get the specifications of the work done, to be briefed on the costing procedures, and to help control costs. According to Siegel, being always in touch with the estimators and offering professional advice on cost-saving strategies whenever expenses are likely to exceed the estimate is crucial. Thus, by promoting communication between the designers and builders, estimators help to avoid a lack of coordination vital in ensuring timely and cost-effective construction of projects.
