Construction Cost Estimating and Cost Control I

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Execute cost estimation effectively during the design phase of projects.

• Implement various cost control methods, emphasizing the Earned Value Method (EVM).

• Navigate the closeout period of projects, encompassing punch lists, final approvals, and client turnovers.

• Evaluate their grasp on the course material through graded quizzes and actively participate in ungraded discussions to deepen their understanding.

Module Overview

Module 1: Introduction to Construction Cost Estimating and Cost Control

Professor Odeh describes the course and provides an overview of what will be covered. Also covered is an introduction to Construction Cost Estimating and Cost Controls.

Module 2: Understanding Design in the Construction Industry

Ian Taylor, project manager for Turner and Townsend, introduces the stages of design in a construction project.

Module 3: Introduction to the Types of Cost Estimates

Professor Odeh describes the types of cost estimates in a construction project. Also covered in this module are the tools and methods used to create estimates.

Module 4: Quantity Take-off and Measurement

James Sneath, Associate Director of Cost Management for Turner and Townsend, and Ian Taylor, Project Manager for Turner and Townsend, discuss Quantity Take Off and Measurement. Estimating cut and fill costs is taught along with a detailed example of using cut and fill software. Also covered in this module is the topic of deep foundations, concrete foundations and structural steel, measurement, masonry, glass curtain wall, facade and wall finishes.

Module 5: Pricing

James Sneath discusses pricing, labor costs and equipment costs. Topics include, cost materials, formwork, reinforcing steel and concrete. Money component and productivity component is discussed in labor costs, as well as estimating equipment costs.

Module 6: Building the Estimate

James Sneath illustrates how to build an estimate and does a deep dive into a schematic design project.

Module 7: Procurement

James Sneath, Associate Director of Cost Management for Turner and Townsend, discussed the procurement stage of a construction projects and they typical involvement of a cost manager or cost estimator. 

Module 8: Post Contract and Cost Estimation within a Project

James Sneath discusses post-contract and cost estimation with a construction project. Also covered in this module are cost reporting, change orders, and communication and meetings.