Laserfiche WebLink
COST ESTIMATING <br />KA has developed a comprehensive budget <br />development process that solicits input from all of <br />our project team members using a wide range of <br />tools. We believe that accuracy is achieved through <br />an iterative and collaborative process, whereby <br />we continue to re-examine and refine the details <br />throughout the preconstruction period as the design <br />moves forward. <br />ESTABLISH INITIAL BUDGET <br />The important first step is to work closely with the <br />City of Ramsey to confirm the target budget for the <br />project. Pre-design/conceptual estimating is critical <br />before reaching the schematic design phase in order <br />to prevent cost overruns and wasted design time. <br />During the pre -design phase we break the project <br />down into various areas of use/buildings and level <br />of work as determined by needs assessment/early <br />architect programming. Using this information, we <br />price at a high level based on square footage and <br />applicable cost history. <br />This sets our baseline cost and informs our target <br />values for decision making at the SD phase. <br />CONTINUOUS COST ESTIMATING <br />The goal for every project that Kraus -Anderson <br />undertakes is to make sure that when the final bid <br />numbers come in, the project stays on budget <br />with no surprises. We achieve this by continually <br />updating the budget numbers Throughout the <br />preconstruction period. As the design progresses and <br />more design details become available, we re -check <br />our assumptions from the earlier estimates to make <br />sure the project is tracking correctly. We complete <br />major cost estimates at the end of each major design <br />phase (schematic, design development, construction <br />documents); however, we also update our cost <br />estimates in between the major phases in an effort to <br />continuously check our numbers. In addition to our in- <br />house estimating capabilities, we also consult with the <br />major prime contractor/vendors in each marketplace <br />where we do business to make sure we keep a close <br />eye on the current market conditions. <br />H. COST ESTIMATING PROCESS <br />VALUE ENGINEERING AND LIFE CYCLE ANALYSIS <br />An important part of our preconstruction activities <br />include identifying value engineering options which <br />addresses the different building methods and materials <br />on the market today. This can include window/wall <br />types, roofing, light fixture types, HVAC equipment, <br />similar products from different manufacturers, etc. — <br />essentially all of the major components that go into <br />this type of unique space. It is our job to identify and <br />review these with the City and architect to make <br />sure we pick the best products that will successfully <br />achieve the design intent for the project. Beyond the <br />initial purchase price for these items, we also examine <br />the life cycle cost which includes the operation and <br />maintenance costs for a particular item over its life <br />span in the building. Energy efficiency and ease of <br />maintenance are important considerations when <br />choosing materials and products for a building project. <br />Best value, overall aesthetics, and a high -performing, <br />functional facility is foremost in our vision of a successful <br />project. We will continuously ask ourselves, "What brings <br />the best value to the City of Ramsey?" <br />CONSTRUCTABILITY METHODS <br />The key to constructability review is the complete <br />understanding of your short and long term goals. We <br />will begin with a broad look at the project — analyzing <br />each of the major systems and assemblies. <br />We will provide a diligent review of the construction <br />documents throughout the design phase, to both flush <br />out potential design and construction ambiguities, and <br />ensure value decisions made by the team have been <br />properly incorporated and reflect the decisions for <br />each issue. KA's team will actively monitor, identify, and <br />communicate their observations as an ongoing effort <br />to review the progress of the construction documents. <br />Kraus -Anderson has made our <br />preconstruction process efficient and <br />painless. Their ability to work as a team <br />with the consultants and the owner is <br />unsurpassed." <br />-Doug Fischer, Anoka County <br />Ramsey Public Works and Fleet Maintenance Facility <br />City of Ramsey, MN <br />28 <br />