Value engineering (VE) is an assessment method to form the most efficient ways to fulfill project goals. VE incorporates cost estimates to facilitate an examination of the entire construction project. In doing so, it assists in delivering the best project outcomes in the most cost-effective way. The main objective of Value Engineering is not to quote on quote, “trim the bottom line,” rather it is designed to maximize the effectiveness with the lowest risk. There are six phases to complete an in depth assessment.
Gather Information
We have to start by asking ourselves, “what is the goal?” The objective here is to determine the owner’s intention for each aspect of the project. When we have a grasp of the intentions we can effectively identify the scope and collect the proper data. This ranges from materials, scheduling, costs and drawings. As soon as there is a full understanding of this we can transition into functional analysis.
Functional Analysis
The main goal of functional analysis is to explore the project details to find opportunities for changes and improvements. There are two ways to break this down and identify these needed changes. One is your primary functions which will play a part in the finished product. Then you have your secondary functions, these are not mandatory or part of the core project, but they’re good to take note of.
Creativity and Innovation
Successfully value engineering a project relies on creativity and innovation; looking at what other options exist in a creative light can help uncover room for changes in strategy and design. Alternative approaches can decrease the chances of failure and raise the odds of a smooth process when unforeseen circumstances arise. In this phase of the process, brainstorming design solutions on the big ticket items can be the determining factor of success or failure.
Evaluation
The evaluation process goes hand in hand with the creativity and innovation process as we consider the advantages and practicality of the proposed innovations. In other words, is this idea beneficial and realistic? When weighing the pros and cons, it is imperative to keep the client’s vision in mind. The client’s expectations play a big part in the evaluation process and the primary focus of this discussion is how well each alternative can perform the function of the original solution.
Development
When the evaluation details have been ironed out, we can then ask “how do the costs and functions change with the ideas proposed?” We prepare a comparison of both the cost and the functionality of these plans. This includes looking at the project timeline, resource availability, creating sketches and cost estimates. Looking at every angle including the advantages and disadvantages allows us to confidently present it to the client.
Presentation
Once the VE steps have been completed, the contractor is able to present it to the client for final review. In the grand scheme of things, VE is designed to benefit the client, not the contractor. Although it may not be designed to always cut costs, it builds trust between the client and their contractor. By leveraging the expertise of the contractor and the intentional attention to detail it gives the client confidence that their vision will be seen through to their expectations. When careful attention to detail backed by a thorough plan is in place it creates value and an unison in partnership.
With Q1 quickly coming to an end it is imperative to get budgets and project outlines in order to hit the ground running for Q2. Kapella Group’s high level professionals specialize in Value Engineering for any of your CapEx, Renovation or New Development needs. Call in today to speak to a professional about your upcoming needs this year.