Design cost modelling: the way forward

Lawther, P M and Edwards, P J (2001) Design cost modelling: the way forward. Construction Economics and Building, 1(1), pp. 32-42. ISSN 2204-9029

Abstract

Design cost modelling is a fundamental cost management support tool used by construction economists/quantity surveyers. The accuracy of design cost modelling is vital to the success of building developments and the viability of clients, consultants and contractors. This paper reports upon design cost modelling research currentlu being undertaken at the department of Building and Construction Economics at RMIT. The paper positions the research by presenting an overview of design cost modelling techniques, their accuracy, deficiencies and usage. Conclusions are drawn that traditional methods of building procurement stifle attempts to advance the accuracy of current design cost modelling techniques used by consultant quantity surveyors. However, recent shifts in procurement trends provide fresh opportunities to re-invigorate design cost modelling research.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: design cost modelling; cost management; quantity surveying practice; procurement
Index terms: construction economics, quantity surveying, design cost modelling, building procurement, cost management, quantity surveying practice, accuracy
Subjects: contractual arrangements, financial analysis, professional development, financial and cost management, profession, accounting and finance
Topics: Roles and Professions, Procurement, Cost Management, Information Management
Descriptive scope: 3 PCT

N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here