Miscellaneous
Section J-1
Value Engineering
The Joint Committee recommends the use of value engineering in the post-bid / preconstruction 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 a recommendation results in the building being fully functional and code-compliant.
When a General Contractor has been consulted during pre-construction, the Designer can utilize input from the Constructor to collaboratively value engineer details to minimize the impact to a project, lessen re-design, and shorten project schedule. The earlier a beneficial 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 re-design 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 stage 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 to consider; such as:
- First Costs
- Operating Expenses
- Constructability Methods
- Time/Schedule Efficiencies
- Quality
- Aesthetics
- Impact on other work disciplines
- Energy Consumption
- LEED Certification
Value Engineering is not to be used as a method to negotiate with a short list of firms (either Contractors or Designers) to bring a project into budget. Value Engineering is NOT a method to allow an Owner to pick and choose from a list of suggestions to incorporate into a project from firms that have not yet been awarded a contract for a project.
Glossary Terms for the Best Practices Guide
History of Recommendation:
Approved May, 2010
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