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5 Vital Factors to Consider in Project Cost Calculation

By Bernadette Salapare | Apr 25, 2024 06:52 AM EDT

Conducting a comprehensive evaluation of the project needs and the scope of the work is of the utmost importance for ensuring that all essential expenditures are accounted for. By taking into account the potential risks and hazards that may occur during the project, a more realistic budget can be created, protecting against any unexpected costs.

(Photo : Pexels/Mikael Blomkvist)

1. Use Dedicated Construction Resource Management Software

There is no longer a need to use Excel spreadsheets to track the expenses of building materials and labor. Construction businesses can now benefit from the availability of purpose-built resource management tools, such as our Bridgit Bench, which can assist them in monitoring expenses and demand in relation to labor and supplies.

An essential benefit of utilizing these tools, as opposed to more general tools like spreadsheets, is their seamless integration with other construction management applications. This integration allows for a more seamless integration into your organization's workflow.

2. Track Costs At An Organizational And Project Level

Maintaining an organizational-level record of labor and material expenses provides valuable insights into a business's overall profitability. However, it is equally imperative to scrutinize the costs of specific initiatives. This can reportedly help your business accumulate more specific information, such as the kinds of projects that generate the highest profits.

Also Read: Advancing Accessibility: Campus Construction Projects Align with DEIA Strategic Plan

3. Refer To Past Projects

There is no such thing as a project that is identical to another. On the other hand, if you have worked on comparable projects, you might analyze their estimates and actual expenses to prepare an estimate for your current project. As an illustration, if you find that the planned cost of an HVAC system for a previous project was P100,000 or almost $2,000, and you are currently working on a project that is very similar to the one you are working on for a budget of just P90,000 or more then $1500 you can evaluate the differences between the two projects to adjust your current project estimate more achievable. Thus, reevaluating your calculations can be accomplished by referring to previous initiatives. 

4. Prepare an Invitation to Bid

When inviting contractors to submit bids for a project, you will request that they provide you with a pricing estimate. The invitation to bid should include all pertinent information on the project, including the scope of work, timetable, and budget. To save everyone's time, it is necessary to be as precise and straightforward as possible.

You should supply as much information as possible right off the bat. Contractors will provide you with more precise bids as a result. Remember that you are not required to accept any of the bids you receive, which is another essential point. Take your time and select the most suitable bid for your requirements.

5. Consider Job Site Pricing Factors

During the process of developing the estimate, there are expected unanticipated costs related to the conditions of the construction site. This may result in project budget overruns and contribute to the company's financial difficulties. On construction sites, there are always unexpected occurrences. The outcome of a situation is never predictable. It is essential to have an estimate of the things that will happen on the job site so that you can be ready for them.

Related Article: Commercial vs. Residential Construction: Understanding the 5 Key Differences

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