Increasing Efficiency Through Constructability Consulting

Abstract

Historic land use alterations degraded hydrologic connectivity along tidal reach of the Elochoman River. To enhance the design and construction process, Evergreen Developers LLC (Evergreen) collaborated with a team of subject matter experts and the owner to achieve project goals.

Evergreen’s consultation identified critical paths in project schedule and procurement early in the project delivery process, leading to a more precise preliminary schedule and project cost. When compared to the design-bid-build process, Evergreen was able to better familiarize themselves with the owner and design team’s intent in all aspects of the project thereby reducing unforeseen conditions for the construction phase. As the constructability consultant, Evergreen displayed how utilization of a contractor’s field experience can lead to an accelerated delivery process, more defined cost and overall project success.

Hypothesis

Habitat Restoration is a creative process for the owner, designer, and developer. Common industry methods from idea to completion bring these parties together in a staged and segregated process. In the design-build process each stakeholder is involved from idea to conception allowing creativity of craft to guide the route of success. Utilization of a constructability consultant during project design increases construction efficiency and proficiency.

Methodology

Site evaluations coupled with preliminary design reviews reduce overall change order percentage, budgetary shortfalls and increase quality control and schedule compliance.

Conclusion

Of the design build or design bid build option for project delivery, an owner should examine overall value in each approach with consideration of the project intent.

Performing as the constructability consultant, early on Evergreen became familiar with the owner and designer’s goals. Evergreens field experience established critical paths that were measured against economic constraints. Perception of these factors allowed Evergreen to develop a more precise construction schedule and budget. One year after the budgetary proposal Evergreen was able to offer a final cost estimate within 6% of initial estimate all while tasked with additional scopes.

Evergreen Developers compared ideas and construction methods through open dialogue that reduced change order costs and increased project success, ultimately delivering a more precise shovel ready project.