RED 508_ Scheduling & Estimating (1)
pdf
School
Arizona State University *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
508
Subject
Industrial Engineering
Date
Apr 3, 2024
Type
Pages
4
Uploaded by AmbassadorHerring4081
John Salter
RED 508: Real Estate Engineering and Construction, Fall 2023
Scheduling & Estimating
October 26nd 2023
Questions
1. Research “pull planning.”
a. In a paragraph or less, describe what pull planning is (10 points).
Pull planning is a collaborative project management technique used in lean
construction and agile methodologies. It involves a team of stakeholders, such as
contractors and subcontractors, working together to sequence and schedule
project tasks in a "pull" fashion, driven by the actual needs and progress of the
project rather than a predefined, top-down plan. This approach allows for
real-time adjustments, promotes communication, and enhances the flexibility of
project execution, ultimately leading to improved project outcomes and reduced
waste.
b. What is the primary advantage of pull planning, compared to CPM
scheduling (another commonly-used scheduling techniques)? (15 points).
The primary advantage of pull planning, compared to Critical Path Method
(CPM), is its adaptability and real-time responsiveness. Pull planning allows
project teams to collaboratively adjust and sequence tasks based on the actual
progress and needs of the project, leading to better coordination and flexibility. In
contrast, CPM scheduling relies on a static, predetermined plan that may not
adapt well to changing conditions or unexpected issues, potentially causing
delays and inefficiencies. Pull planning promotes greater communication,
reduces waste, and fosters a more agile and responsive approach to project
management, making it particularly beneficial in complex and dynamic
construction or project environments.
c. Do you think that pull planning is feasible during the “pre-development”
phase of a project? (2 points).
Pull planning is less feasible during the "pre-development" phase because it
requires a higher level of project detail and is better suited for execution and
Page 1
construction stages when tasks are better defined. During pre-development,
other planning tools are typically more appropriate for shaping the project
concept.
i. If so, who would engage and what would they plan (8 points)?
The application of pull planning in the pre-development phase is more flexible
and informal than in later project stages. It would promote collaboration between
the project owners, project managers, architects, engineer, planners, consultants
and legal experts. These groups are in charge of zoning, preliminary plats,
infrastructure plans, and any legal issues that may arise. This alignment of
objectives, helps with a structured approach to setting the groundwork for the
project.
ii. If not, list at least two specific reasons why not, and briefly
explain each (8 points).
Pre-development phases of projects are less suited for pull planning due
to their dynamic, exploratory nature and the lack of detailed, well-defined tasks.
This phase often focuses on defining objectives and feasibility, making it better
suited for informal collaboration and adaptability to accommodate changing
project requirements.
2. Review the PDRI – Building Projects Element Descriptions (Appendix C of the 155_v2 file
posted on canvas). This can be a short skim – you need not read every page in detail.
a. In one paragraph, describe what you understand the tool to be (10
points).
The PDRI is a structured system that helps project teams evaluate different
aspects of a construction project as it progresses from planning to execution. It
breaks down the project into various elements, like objectives, scope, cost
estimates, and schedules, and allows teams to assess how well these are
defined and planned.
b. How do you think such a tool could be helpful for developers (10
points)?
This assessment helps in identifying and addressing potential issues and risks,
making sure the project is well-prepared and on track for success. Developers
could use it to assess risk on there projects.
Page 2
3. Estimating (45 points)
a. How do general contractors typically develop their construction
estimates for a job (5 points)?
General contractors develop construction estimates by assessing project plans
and conducting site visits to understand the work involved. They use estimating
software like Bluebeam to measure quantities and calculate costs for labor,
materials, equipment, and subcontractor services. They also seek bids from
subcontractors and suppliers, incorporate these into the estimate, and add
contingencies and a markup for potential extra costs and profits.
b. How could a developer leverage historical costs from their previous
projects to estimate the cost of an upcoming job (10 points)?
Developers can use their past project data to estimate costs for future jobs by
organizing and analyzing their historical project information, adjusting for factors
like inflation, location, and scope differences. They should consider market
conditions and advances in construction technology, seek advice from
experienced estimators, and include contingencies for potential surprises.
i. In what circumstances would you recommend not using the
developer’s historical data to estimate the cost of a future
development (10 points)?
A developer should avoid relying solely on a developer's historical data for cost
estimation when the new project significantly differs in type, size, location, or
complexity, or when there are changes in regulations or unique project
characteristics. They should avoid when the historical data lacks accuracy or
relevancy.
c. Many contractors will offer preconstruction services, which support
budgeting as early as the schematic design phase for a project.
i. As a developer, when would such services be valuable to you (10
points)?
As a developer, preconstruction services from contractors are a valuable
tool. These services help you create a preliminary budget, refine project
scope, and make informed decisions about design choices while ensuring
cost certainty. Contractors can suggest cost-effective alternatives, reduce
construction challenges, and mitigate risks, which can save you time and
Page 3
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
money. These services should be considered even before you are
considering purchasing a property.
ii. Conversely, describe a situation when these preconstruction
Services would not be valuable to you (10 points)?
Preconstruction services from contractors might be less valuable when
the project is straightforward, has a very tight budget, has short timelines,
or when there's a strong, trusted history with a contractor, for
standardized or repetitive projects, when design changes are unlikely, or
in low-risk situations
Page 4