Best Practices: Value Engineering

CB uses value engineering to improve the ratio of function to cost. When value engineering starts early in post bid/pre-construction phase, the project strategy provides a strong base to start the of construction — and greatly impacts the success of the project.

Value engineering is used in the post bid/pre-construction phase of a project to evaluate and analyze design and constructability of a project to provide the best value and functionality to the owner, provided that the recommendations result in the building being fully functional and code-compliant.

Value engineering is used in the post bid / pre-construction phase of a project to evaluate and analyze design and constructability of a project to provide the best value and functionality to the owner.

When the construction manager has been consulted during pre-construction, the designer can utilize the input to collaboratively value engineer details to minimize the impact to a project, lessen redesign and stay on schedule. The earlier a change can be identified, the higher its potential for value and positive impact on the project can be realized. However, the owner should be aware that redesign work may result in an increase in design costs.

Value engineering should be a collaborative process that can begin as early as the design concept phase and continue throughout the duration of the project.

Also, it is important to seek value engineering input from professionals involved in the project, like subcontractors, engineers, suppliers, etc. The construction team should evaluate alternatives for the owner, such as:

• Initial Costs

• Operating Expenses

• Constructability Methods

• Time/Schedule Efficiencies

• Quality

• Aesthetic

• Energy Consumption

• LEED Certification

 CB has a proven track record of delivering value to construction projects including pre-construction, design, construction and handover and industry expertise.