Ensuring the Successful Execution of Federally-Funded Construction Projects by Local Governments
Federally-funded construction projects can be a mystery for leaders in state and local government and public education. Questions abound regarding
Blog: Procurement
What is a “Responsive, Responsible” Bidder?
When contractors submit a bid, they use their expertise and knowledge to formulate a bid price that is accurate and competitive, but the bid must also be “responsive” and the bidder must be “responsible.” What do these terms mean?
Spring Ahead in Construction Project Planning
If the construction calendar were laid out on a timeline graph, it would likely resemble a bell curve, with the bulk of construction work being shouldered in the summer months. Here are some things to keep in mind for your summer construction project planning.
Wise Spending at Fiscal Year End
Many times a facility manager receives their budget for the year at the beginning of their Fiscal Year (FY). This budget may include set-aside funding for repair, maintenance or small construction projects.
Shrinking Budgets, Growing Needs
Lower budgets have become a reality for many in the public and private sectors. Local and state government agencies, school districts, universities, hospitals and others have struggled with trying to accomplish as much as possible with fewer financial resources. Making sure that you’re using the most efficient methods possible is one way to stretch dollars without sacrificing quality.
Reducing the Impact of Change Orders
Change orders remain one of the most frustrating issues in the construction industry, seeming to sneak up on owners and contractors to spike costs and prolong project schedules. Even when all financial and planning systems are in order, a last-minute alteration can throw everything out of sync, leaving decision-makers feeling like they have no other choice but to throw more money at the project to keep it on schedule. On average, change orders account for approximately 8-14% of all capital construction dollars. 24% of the time change orders account for over 10% of the total project costs.
Control the Impacts of Change Orders
Change orders affect construction projects of all sizes, and can feel like they are a way of life in construction.
Job Order Contracts for Emergency Response
Natural disasters and mechanical failures, such as a water line break or a bridge bearing failure, can create an emergency event that requires an immediate response to stabilize the building, site or impacted area, to clean up, and to make the required repairs.
How My Marriage Counselor Helped Me Understand Change Orders
One of the many great things about my marriage is my wife doesn’t really understand what I do, and as a result, she doesn’t read my blogs either, so I am safe in writing about the time we went to a marriage counselor.
Boosting the Value in Value Engineering
Having a knowledgeable and experienced person perform value engineering on a proposed construction project is a great benefit and can save time and money for the facility owner.
