ABSTRACT

Clients who are interested in building development will choose to discuss their project with an architect or surveyor or with a building contractor. One of these becomes the lead consultant who is then responsible for appointing the remainder of the design and construction teams. Whilst clients come in many different shapes, sizes and varieties, they can be broadly classified in one of three categories:

1. Clients who have a clear idea of their building requirements in terms of space, design and aesthetics, but are generally uncertain of the cost implications

2. Clients who have a very large amount of money to spend and a project in mind but are unsure of exactly what that amount of money will purchase

3. Clients who know their building requirements and who also have a good idea what this might purchase as well as limited sum of money to spend on the project

Clients who are involved in capital works projects on an occasional basis will usually be in categories 1 and 2, although there is often a mismatch between the project and the funding that is required. Clients who build on a regular basis will have a good idea of their expectations in terms of design and cost. It should be recognised that

design. Skilful and professional estimating and cost planning add real value by enabling informed decision-making from the outset.