Frequently
Asked
Questions

Welcome to the Build Analysis Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page, where we address common questions and concerns related to construction project management, cost analysis, estimating, and more. Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to navigate the complexities of the construction and real estate development industries. Dive in to explore a wealth of knowledge, tips, and best practices from our team of experienced professionals.


1. What is Construction Project Management?

Construction project management is the art of directing and coordinating human and material resources throughout the life of a construction project. It relies on modern management methods to achieve predetermined objectives of cost, scope, quality, time, and participation satisfaction.

 

The key responsibilities of project managers are ensuring completion of project objectives, implementing necessary operations, efficient resource utilization maximization, and developing effective mechanisms for communicating.

2. What is Construction Project Planning?

Construction project planning is the process of creating a development plan that will govern the entire construction process. It involves:

  • Defining the specific roles of each entity in the construction project
  • Highlights how different work tasks and entities should coordinate
  • Determining the necessary technology for the project to succeed
  • Detailing all the resources required for the project

3. What is Cost Analysis in construction?

A construction cost analysis is a comprehensive breakdown of the costs incurred while performing various project-related activities. It is done with several objectives in mind. These include:

  • Providing an estimated construction budget at completion
  • Periodic budget management and cost controls 
  • Construction cost to complete and cashflow management

4. What is Cost Estimating in Project Management?

In project management, cost estimation is the process of creating a forecast for financial as well as other resources needed for a project to be completed within its defined scope. In cost estimation, all elements of the project, such as labor and materials, are accounted for, and calculations are made to determine how much of each is needed.

5. What is Cost Management in construction?

During construction, cost management is essential. It begins with forecasting the cost of building physical structures and then managing those costs to efficiently deliver the project within the forecasted budget. The purpose of diligently implementing cost management best practices is to identify projected cost overruns that can put the project at financial risk. For large projects, it is advisable to have cost estimates done by contractors and independent estimators to ensure estimates are accurate and then periodically revisit estimates to ensure actual costs are in line with estimated budgets.

6. What is estimating in construction?

Construction estimating is a process aimed at anticipating the actual cost of building a physical structure. While making such estimations, estimators need to be as accurate as possible. If there are significant variations between estimates and the actual costs, contractors’ profit margins will be affected, and in effect, owners’ return on investment is at risk.

7. What to expect at a Pre-Construction Meeting?

Preconstruction meetings are meetings organized before a project commences. They bring all project stakeholders in one place to discuss details about the construction. Such meetings are essential as they help ensure that all parties are on the same page and to minimize the risk of issues arising later.

 

During pre-construction meetings, you should expect:

 

  • To know the owner or client for the project
  • A clear definition of each party’s roles and responsibilities
  • Establishment or confirmation of the chain of command
  • Review of project-related documents
  • A question and answer session

8. What is overhead cost in construction projects?

Overhead costs in construction projects are costs added to the estimated costs to cater to cost variations during the project. They are calculated as a percentage of the total cost of materials, labor, and equipment. Overhead costs can be classified into two categories, general overhead (or indirect costs) and job overhead (direct costs such as general conditions and requirements).

9. What is Project Management in the Construction Industry?

Construction project management encompasses a set of activities done by a project manager that involves planning, coordinating, budgeting, and supervising the construction project. Depending on the role of the entity, project management team functions will vary from one to the next. 

10. What is Project Cost Estimation?

Project cost estimation is the process of predicting the quantity, price, and cost of the labor, equipment, and materials necessary to complete a project.

11. What is a Project Procurement Management Plan?

A project procurement management plan is a document that outlines how procurement processes will be carried out to ensure there are no interruptions during the project.

12. What is Construction Project Management?

Construction project management is the process of ensuring that all aspects of a project take place as and when needed and within budget. It involves directing and coordinating both human and material resources during the project’s lifetime to achieve predetermined objectives.

13. Which type of Project Cost Estimate is the most accurate?

Cost estimating is an essential part of a project. There are different methods of estimating costs that have varying degrees of accuracy and time needed. Suitability also depends on the type of project. 

 

The two common types of cost estimating methods are rough order of magnitude (ROM) and the detailed unit cost method. Although the ROM method is fast and relatively accurate depending on the type of project, you will get more accuracy with the unit cost method of estimating.

14. Why Cost Estimation is Important in Project Planning and Management?

A key tool available to determine the financial success of a project and helps control costs is the construction estimate, and during the project planning process, it is essential to develop accurate cost estimates to identify and calculate potential risk associated with a project. 

 

For contractors, their estimates certainly influence whether they will be awarded the contract. Efficient resource utilization in a construction project is essential as it can affect the contractor’s income as well as the success of a project. A detailed unit cost estimate with feedback from vendors and suppliers will provide contractors a clearer picture of the project’s scope as it relates to trade quantities, pricing, and total cost of the resources needed to successfully complete a project. 

 

For owners and developers, the construction estimate will contribute a significant amount to their total investment, which in turn can directly impact the project’s return on investment. A best practice approach for owners and developers is to request bids from interested contractors while also engaging with cost estimating consultants to develop their own. This will provide owners and developers more confidence in a construction estimate and mitigate the risk of potential gaps in a contractor’s bid.  

 

15. Why is Cost Estimation in Project Management Important?

Price estimates in project management for a variety of reasons. In addition to helping you determine the budget of the project, they also provide you with:

 

  • Baseline budget for project financing
  • Monthly billing schedule 
  • Cashflow management

For accurate cost estimation, it is important to break down the project into multiple components that are more manageable. With each component, determine all the resources required to accomplish its respective portion of the project. Involving industry expertise and experience with similar projects can help make cost estimates more accurate and less time consuming. 

Fulfillment Policy

At Build Analysis, we are dedicated to ensuring clarity and transparency in all our service engagements. The following policies outline how we manage refunds, service delivery, returns, and cancellations, all in strict accordance with the terms specified in your Master Services Agreement (MSA) and/or Project Work Authorization (PWA).

1. Refund Policy
Refunds are governed by the specific terms outlined in your MSA/PWA:
  • Eligibility: Refunds may be available if the services provided do not meet the agreed-upon scope or quality as detailed in your MSA/PWA.
  • Process: To initiate a refund, please refer to the procedures described in your MSA/PWA and contact our support team at Info@Buildanalysis.com with the necessary details.
2. Service Delivery Policy
Service delivery is conducted strictly in line with the methods and conditions agreed upon in your MSA/PWA:
  • Delivery Methods: Services will be delivered as specified in your MSA/PWA, including the mode of delivery and any other relevant conditions.
  • Geographical Scope: Services are provided in accordance with the geographical scope defined in your MSA/PWA.
3. Return Policy
As a service provider, we do not accept returns. However, any concerns regarding the services delivered should be addressed as follows:
  • Eligibility: If the services delivered do not meet the standards outlined in your MSA/PWA, please follow the remediation process described therein.
  • Process: Contact Info@Buildanalysis.com with your project details to discuss potential remedies as per your MSA/PWA.
4. Cancellation Policy
Cancellations are handled as per the terms specified in your MSA/PWA:
  • Service Cancellations: Any cancellations should be conducted in accordance with the conditions outlined in your MSA/PWA.
  • Fees: Any applicable fees for cancellations are detailed within your MSA/PWA.
5. Customer Support
For any questions or assistance, please reach out through the following methods:
  • Phone: (310) 736-0606
6. Security and Compliance
We ensure that all sensitive information is handled securely and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, as well as the terms specified in your MSA/PWA.
All terms and conditions outlined in this policy are subject to and governed by the specific provisions in your Master Services Agreement (MSA) and/or Project Work Authorization (PWA). Please review these documents thoroughly to fully understand your rights and obligations.

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