Evolution and Development in Commercial Construction Estimating
Estimation for a commercial construction project is inherently a behind-the-scenes facet of a commercial construction project. Additionally, it is the first step that is accomplished before the ball can really get going and construction can begin.
This guide aims to give a look behind the curtain of the estimation process. Additionally, in honor of our 30 year anniversary, we’re going to explore how estimating at Park Enterprise Construction has evolved.
Commercial Construction Estimating at Park Enterprise Construction
When Park Enterprise Construction began, owner and founder Eric Park created a spreadsheet estimating tool that was used to calculate the estimated cost of each project. This method of estimating was utilized effectively for a number of years.
10 years ago, Eric furthered his commitment to the estimating process by bringing on a dedicated expert to work in the Estimator role. 2 years ago, the estimating department was further expanded with the addition of two more team members, working in conjunction to provide estimates for various projects.
In addition to team growth, the estimating process has grown and evolved with technology.
Currently, the estimating team at Park Enterprise Construction uses an advanced software estimating program called HCSS HeavyBid to help speed up the bidding and estimation process, as well as continue their commitment to quality and accuracy.
6 Steps For Commercial Construction Project Estimating
In conjunction with the HCSS software, the estimating team follows the same 6 step process for each project that comes in:
- Bid Request or Bid Determination
- Plan Acquisition
- Internal Notice Sent
- Input Into Software
- Review Meeting Scheduled
- Bid is Sent
These steps are explained further here:
1. Bid Request or Bid Determination
This step varies slightly depending on the project, and whether the team at Park Enterprise Construction has been contacted by an individual for a project, or if they are initiating the bid on a project.
If the team is contacted for a bid, they closely examine the project to ensure that it is a good fit with the team’s capabilities.
2. Plan Acquisition
After the project is deemed a good fit to move forward on, the project plans are sent for review.
3. Internal Notice Sent
An in-house notice is sent regarding the project moving forward. Then, material suppliers and any subcontractors as needed are contacted to determine what is needed to accomplish the project.
4. Input Into Software
The plan is imported into the HCSS heavy bid software and the estimate begins to formulate. After about 2-3 days, the material and subcontractor costs begin to come through, and a formal bid can be documented.
All of this takes place in the software.
5. Review Meeting Scheduled
Internally, the estimation team meets with CEO Eric Park to review the final bid and the scope of the project.
Additionally, a timeline for when work will begin is established.
6. Bid is Sent
Depending on the project, either the bid is send over digitally for review, or the estimation team sits with the owner of the project and the General Contractor on the project to review the bid in detail.
Going through the bid in detail helps to give transparency into the estimation process, as well as build relationships with key project team members before the job begins.