Laying the Foundation for Success Through a Comprehensive Preconstruction Process
There’s a common misconception that preconstruction starts and ends with estimating. At McCownGordon, this couldn’t be farther from the truth. Our preconstruction process is about creating a detailed plan that paves the way for project success right from the start. By laying a strong foundation and focusing on more than just an accurate budget and cost options, we ensure that every aspect of the construction process is well-coordinated. This approach not only minimizes risks but also maximizes value, ultimately leading to a successful and smooth construction journey.
Driving Accuracy
While preconstruction encompasses much more than just estimating, we cannot ignore that an accurate estimate is the most critical step in the process. Establishing an accurate baseline estimate instills confidence in the team and owner’s decision-making process while also demonstrating to the public that we responsibly manage taxpayer dollars when it comes to publicly funded projects. At McCownGordon, our initial estimate relies on a clear understanding of project scope, historical data and trade partner input. As the project design progresses, we integrate live estimating to provide real-time costs. Consistent engagement from the estimating team enhances accuracy and efficiency while avoiding unnecessary cost escalation.
In the last 12 months, 53 final GMPs came in 0.73% under budget, a testament to our team driving accuracy early in the preconstruction process.
Creative Solutions
Achieving maximum value and performance is a top priority during the preconstruction phase. In conjunction with establishing an accurate baseline estimate, we proactively provide creative and cost-saving solutions. Value-based decisions must accommodate project goals, including factors such as material quality and durability, building efficiency, program optimization, budget and schedule impacts, and more. We leverage our in-house Building Performance Solutions team to find savings related to building envelope, energy and systems.
Implementing value-added solutions with a good ROI is essential, even if they increase day-one construction costs, as they save money in the long run. For example, more efficient lighting or HVAC systems have lower operational costs, such as utility expenses. Another example is evaluating the cost premium to extend the life of a roof system, such as upgrading from a TPO system to Modified Bitumen. This results in less maintenance and longer intervals between roofing replacements, reducing disruptions to building operations.
Historically, by using this integrated approach, our team routinely identifies 15-25% in value considerations and potential cost-saving opportunities.
Early Collaboration
In the preconstruction process, early involvement yields the best results. When our team is integrated into the process from the start, owners gain expertise that provides lasting value. We provide guidance and insight on key decision points, helping clients avoid unpleasant surprises. McCownGordon’s early engagement improves the understanding of a project’s design intent and ensures alignment among stakeholders.
When it comes to publicly funded projects, design-bid-build is a commonly used delivery method where the design is complete before a general contractor even bids the job. By opting for a more collaborative delivery method, such as Construction Management at Risk (CMAR), the construction team is engaged from the onset resulting in maximized value and reduced risk.
So, What Else is Preconstruction?
Everyone knows that preconstruction is when the price is determined. But what else does it entail? Preconstruction is every aspect of a construction project before the first shovel hits the ground. This involves everything from site selection and feasibility studies to ROI analysis, and schedule and phasing development. By incorporating constructability and technology reviews, systems evaluations, and more early in preconstruction, our team of seasoned professionals provides expertise focused on delivering long-term ROI. Throughout the entire preconstruction phase, we focus on ensuring optimal integration of design and construction, setting a clear plan to mitigate risk for a successful construction experience. For instance, by pre-purchasing long-lead equipment, we ensure projects stay on schedule and are completed efficiently.
Our team continues to seek creative solutions when it comes to project schedules. We actively evaluate the schedule to find better pathways, whether through overlapping phases of design and construction, re-sequencing, or other means. Many schedule solutions result in cost savings in addition to a quicker, more efficient turnover of your new space.
Ultimately, the success of the preconstruction phase hinges on all parties providing clear communication and adopting an open-book approach. Without establishing a strong foundation in preconstruction, projects risk encountering delays, cost overruns and quality issues.
Hear it for Yourself
“McCownGordon served as a construction manager at risk for our new police headquarters and exceeded our expectations with a transparent, honest, and proactive approach. They had strong project leadership, communication, and a dedication to performance. I appreciate McCownGordon’s adept handling of timely decision-making and their diligence in keeping me informed about issues or decisions that could potentially impact the budget or project completion. Throughout the entire duration, McCownGordon maintained constant communication, ensuring their team was accessible and reliable. The team developed reliable, detailed cost estimates that allowed us to accurately track construction costs and make design adjustments accordingly.” – Ken Murphy, City Administrator, City of Grain Valley, MO
