How Value Design & Value Engineering Apply to Every Construction Project
Introduction to Costly Construction Traditions
In the construction industry, traditional project sequences often lead to Costly Construction Traditions. These practices significantly impact your budget due to late-addressed inefficiencies. Conventionally, projects seek a contractor’s expertise only after completing the design phase and drafting architectural plans. This method, which limits contractors’ input on the plans, exemplifies a prime source of costly construction traditions. Such practices often escalate the budget with numerous change orders and delays, disconnecting the project’s execution from its design phase.
Why Projects Overrun Budgets
This is the #1 reason that so many project budgets quickly escalate with change orders and delays.
Long-standing separation between design and execution drains finances, highlighting the need for a shift in construction project approaches.
Integrating Value Design and Value Engineering
Value Design and Value Engineering become critical methodologies to counter costly construction traditions. They optimize both time and cost from the project’s outset. Involve a contractor from the beginning to design your project within budget and without unnecessary expenses.
Synergy Among Professionals
The synergy between your designer, architect, and contractor is crucial for smoothly progressing projects. Misalignments among these experts often result in delays, change orders, and increased billable hours. However, you can avoid these issues with a unified start. Early coordination prevents the typical ripple effect of negative impacts on the schedule and budget.
Application Across Projects
This applies to every project, from the smallest retail build-out to a ground-up hotel.
Retail build-outs, for instance, might unnecessarily replace existing, functional systems. A qualified General Contractor (GC) can conduct a comprehensive inspection to identify conservation opportunities. This can allocate funds towards better finishes, designs, or improve your operational budget. Additionally, it minimizes waste, offering an environmental benefit.
Early Contractor Involvement in Large Projects
Large projects similarly benefit from early contractor involvement. Designers and architects may envision the project, but they are not builders. The contractor brings essential knowledge on:
Current material and labor costs by trade
Supplier lead times for specialty items
Specific issues of the build-site
Avoiding potential pitfalls before construction
Practical solutions from hands-on experience
Conclusion: The Revolution in Building Efficiency
Engaging a qualified Contractor from the start can revolutionize building efficiency. It ensures projects complete on time and within budget, steering clear of costly construction traditions.
