Services

Cost Estimating

 

The process begins at the Concept Stage, we evaluate the entire project to produce a preliminary cost estimate which is used to establish the budget. During the Design Development Stage, the project estimate begins to take on a more defined shape. Certain details appear in our estimate that shape the final cost of the project. At the Final Stage, we produce a highly detailed estimate that is supplemented with various qualifications and price quotations.

Value Engineering

 

Value engineering is a crucial part of the design process that increases the efficiency of a project. Through value engineering, the A/E team can reduce the cost of construction while increasing and enhancing the scope of design. Our team prepares a conceptual stage estimate which serves as a basis for graphic cost model. We “Brainstorm” the recommendations which are based on lowering cost, substituting a better product at the same cost or revising the layout/area of the project. We develop “mini” estimates which exemplify the original design, proposed design and the savings or additional cost associated with certain proposal.

Review of Third Party Estimates & Cost Analysis

 

In certain cases, we will review a third party estimate. We evaluate the estimate for various quantity errors and review all prices to be certain that they follow the current industry standards. Upon completion we produce a detailed analysis that clearly depicts our findings. Underscore Solutions has developed various methods for analyzing the cost of a project. We have created certain tables, graphs and other models in order to closely exemplify the various cost scenarios.

Change Orders, Preparation & Negotiation

Underscore Solutions will prepare change order estimates (in greater detail than our final estimate) in a labor/material format, complete with man hours and productivity breakdown. This detail serves as a tool, in order to control the contractor’s cost. Our team then goes on to negotiate with the contractor, insuring a realistic cost for the change order.