Analysis of the accuracy of standard/average value curves using food retail building projects as case studies

Evans, R C and Kaka, A P (1998) Analysis of the accuracy of standard/average value curves using food retail building projects as case studies. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 5(1), pp. 58-67. ISSN 0969-9988

Abstract

Several cash flow forecasting models have been developed for use by the contractor at the tendering stage. The majority of these models have been based on the standard S-curve. The accuracy of these models depends on the accuracy of the standard S-curve used. Many researchers have attempted to develop standard S-curves using past projects. These projects were primarily classified in terms of broad-based categories (e.g. commercial buildings). The results of past research have demonstrated that cumulative value/cost curves vary significantly. In the present paper, a more specific type of building was selected (food retail stores). Historical data for 20 projects was collected and analysed for the feasibility of developing a more accurate standard S-curve. The results demonstrate that an accurate standard S-curve was not achieved even when projects were further classified into more detailed groups (i.e. different sizes of superstores).

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: value curves; S-curves; cash flow forecasting; logit transformation; food retail superstores
Index terms: retail building, cash flow forecasting, transformation, s-curve, accuracy, commercial building, case study
Subjects: financial and cost management, construction type, economics, professional development, data collection methods, business
Topics: Research Practice, Business Strategy, Cost Management, Information Management, Construction Technology
Descriptive scope: 3 PCE

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