ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the quality of the preconstruction process to determine the cost and duration of the construction program. It argues that a well-planned preconstruction phase is absolutely critical to a cost- and schedule-effective construction project, no matter how small or large. A process initiated by two entities: the owner and the architect/engineer, neither of whom will always have a total understanding of construction or the needs of a construction contractor. In cases where detailed specifications are prepared by the owner's representative, there is a relatively narrow fence around the contractor's potential financial liabilities. It is imperative that the best definition be provided to the contractor as a basis for bid preparation. The area of tolerances is one in which design cannot be isolated—it must be integrated sensibly with the real world of construction. The chapter describes four construction methodologies such as maximum flexibility, design interfaces, schedule and fast tracking.
