Cost Estimating:

Our approach to cost estimating is very simple; accurate and concise quantity analysis is essential. Once quantities are determined, estimators apply current cost data (labor, equipment, materials, sub contractors, general conditions, etc.) to the quantity analysis and develop a cost estimate From there, they assemble a list of assumptions used in creating the cost estimate to help the A&E and Owner understand how the pricing strategy was established. During the conceptual and preliminary design stages these assumptions will change as the design progresses. As estimators enter the final design phases of the project, they are able to bring the cost estimate into balance with construction industry standards.

Scope of Services

Our estimators will provide support to your project teams upon development of the Preliminary Scope of Work. If there are multiple projects that need to be delivered concurrently, staff will be provided as necessary to create preliminary estimates with those teams. They will follow through
with this approach for the Conceptual, Design Development and Construction Document Phases to assist the consultant and A&E teams at every step, providing accurate, comprehensive estimates for each phase.

Conceptual Estimating

At J.R. Conkey & Associates, our approach to conceptual estimating consists of understanding and then following the A&E’s and the Client’s vision of the project While not a simple task, it can be accomplished by applying standard construction practices and costs to their themes and by developing cost estimates to reflect their ideas The depth of practical, hands-on experience of our staff allows our clients to get a firm, concise grasp of the project Typically, a project will face many changes through the design development phases and one of the core purposes of our  team of estimators is to anticipate out-of-scope changes before they arise.

Design Development Phase

The design development phase of a project involves many intersecting disciplines Our staff works with the A&E teams during this phase of design to ensure costs are held at a minimum Our team’s mission is to immediately identify all forms of scope creep and constantly work toward keeping the project within budget During the pre-design phase and again at each major milestone of the design for each project, we will develop an independent estimate of probable construction costs which will account for your current planning assumptions In this way, the project and project teams have a consolidated cost basis to proceed with the projects with cost containment assured.

Construction Document Phase

The J.R. Conkey team of estimators and schedulers have the depth of practical experience to develop accurate timelines for projects as they progress through the design phases into construction When asked, P3 (Primavera) scheduling software is utilized to create project schedules This software interfaces directly with many estimating software systems, including Timberline and Heavy Bid, to produce schedules with relative ease.

Value Engineering

At J.R. Conkey & Associates the job of producing the greatest value for the least cost belongs to everyone equally. Our team of experienced cost estimators – many of whom are licensed general contractors –rigorously inspect alternatives and refine the cost estimates as necessary as a matter of standard practice.

Our estimating team continuously seeks ways to save the owner money, while staying within the original design concept without compromising the integrity of the project Estimators start value engineering long before 100% Construction Documents are finalized Our practices are based on the belief that the greater impact on cost is made in the definition and design stages of the project Without having these practices in place by the time construction starts, changes to related systems wipe out savings in another system To avoid this, our estimators continually work with the consultants and the A&E teams to find ways to construct projects that meet the project schedules while keeping the costs to a minimum Our team’s continual review and value engineering of the documents will provide you with options from which to choose to avoid surprises while maximizing your construction dollars.