Cost Certainty in major development projects


Cost Certainty when using off-site construction Well designed, off-site construction projects will help to ensure cost certainty. If a project is committed to off-site construction at the design stage, then all of the project team will be working together to maximise the amount of M&E fit-out off site, in turn minimising the work required on site. By sticking to the following guidelines, it is possible to guarantee cost certainty on a healthcare building project: An early commitment to the use of modular off-site construction The design team understanding the processes of using off-site construction Bring together all members of the project team including the end users to ensure and agree on the following:
				1. Define end user design involvement and ensure all design parties understand the precise requirements 2. Agree, commit to, and gain an understanding of the technicalities of off-site construction design parameters

Ensure end user design approvals are sought at key stages of the process, and avoid a "free for all" of design changes during a project which will cost money Focus on completing and approving all of the detailed design work prior to issuing the construction order and contract. Leaving out specific details until after construction has begun will erode cost certainty.

When compared with traditional methods, off-site construction can deliver a building in less than half the time. However, it does require a tight and detailed design process to achieve the best results. Working towards the above guidelines, which may appear obvious, but are often ignored, will aid in delivering a building with a guaranteed certainty of cost.

Most traditional building projects undergo the detailed design process when construction has already started. Due to the fast-track nature of using off-site construction this is not always possible therefore the majority, if not all, of the detailed design work must be complete prior to the construction period. Our case studies section shows some examples of how large and technically complicated facilities have been provided in astonishing timescales whilst maintaining cost certainty.

Cost Certainty when using off-site construction