Quantification and costing Flashcards
How proficient are you in using measurement software and what benefits does BIM offer for costing data?
I am proficient in using CostX measurement software, which allows me to accurately measure quantities from CAD drawings and BIM models. BIM is beneficial for clash detection and streamlining costing data, although it has limitations. Incorporating the employer’s Information Requirements for BIM execution planning ensures a coherent project management approach and accurate costing.
What is the RICS Code of Measuring Practice, and how does it distinguish between Net Internal Area and Gross External Area?
The RICS Code of Measuring Practice provides standards for measuring property areas. Net Internal Area (NIA) measures usable floor space within a building, excluding external walls, while Gross External Area (GEA) includes all external walls and is used for assessing the total footprint of a building. Understanding these distinctions helps ensure accurate and consistent area measurement.
What are the RICS New Rules of Measurement (NRM), and how do they apply to different types of work?
The RICS New Rules of Measurement (NRM) include NRM 1 (Order of Cost Estimating), NRM 2 (Cost Planning), and NRM 3 (Work Sectional Measurement). These rules guide the quantification and costing process across various project stages, from initial estimates to detailed cost planning and maintenance. They ensure consistency and precision in measurements and cost assessments.
Can you describe your experience with quantification tasks and how you managed them on the 1 Triton Square project?
On the 1 Triton Square project, I was involved in measuring design drawings from area schedules to detailed RIBA Stage 3 quantities. I used past project data and benchmark information to create a comprehensive cost plan. Additionally, I prepared the pricing schedule for the tender documents, ensuring clarity and accuracy in tender submissions.
How did you handle cost estimates and contractor cost breakdowns on the Canary Wharf project?
On the Canary Wharf project, I estimated costs for post-contract changes and reviewed contractors’ cost breakdowns. I ensured that measurements and pricing were accurate and aligned with contract rates. Discrepancies were discussed and resolved to ensure fair pricing and adherence to contract terms.
Can you provide an example where you addressed discrepancies in measurements or suggested cost-effective design solutions?
On a parliamentary project, I identified a discrepancy between my measurements and those of the architect due to deviations from the RICS Code of Measurement. I explained the differences to the client and corrected the measurements. On the Triton Project, I recommended value engineering to address budget overruns by suggesting cost-effective design alternatives, such as changing ceiling finishes, which achieved cost savings without compromising design quality.
How did you approach evaluating costs for project variations on the NESO project?
For the NESO project, I evaluated costs for variations, such as acoustic paneling not initially included in the contract scope. I recommended obtaining an independent quotation for comparison. After analyzing the contractor’s pricing against the quote, I confirmed that the costs were reasonable and aligned with industry norms, ensuring fair pricing for the client.
Can you explain how you use the CostX measurement software in your quantification process?
CostX is used for precise measurement and cost estimation. It allows for efficient quantification from CAD drawings and BIM models.
How does it integrate with CAD drawings and BIM models to enhance accuracy?
It enhances accuracy by integrating directly with CAD drawings and BIM models, ensuring that quantities are up-to-date with design changes and reducing manual measurement errors.
How do you incorporate the Code of Measuring Practice and the RICS New Rules of Measurement (NRM 1, NRM 2, and NRM 3) in your costing and quantification tasks?
These standards guide the measurement and costing process. They ensure consistency and accuracy by providing detailed methods for measuring various construction elements and managing project costs.
Describe your role in developing area schedules and cost plans for the 1 Triton Square project.
Involved creating area schedules to outline spaces and their dimensions, which informed detailed cost plans.
Can you provide examples of how these standards have influenced your work on specific projects?
For instance, using NRM 1 for elemental cost planning, NRM 2 for detailed work sections, and NRM 3 for operational costs helps maintain uniformity and precision in cost estimates across different projects.
How did advancing from an area schedule to detailed measures improve the accuracy of your cost planning?
Moving from area schedules to detailed measures allowed for a more accurate cost plan by incorporating specific quantities and construction details.
What methods did you use to ensure that your cost plans were market-tested and accurate?
Market-tested cost plans involved validating estimates against current market rates and project specifics to ensure accuracy.
How did you leverage past project data and benchmark information for cost estimation in the Canary Wharf Project?
Historical project data and benchmark information helped in estimating costs by comparing similar projects and adjusting for current market conditions.
