Constructability Analysis
In land development, success hinges on meticulous planning, precise execution, and efficient utilization of resources. At the core of this is constructability analysis, the thorough examination of construction plans, means, methods, and project constraints. It examines deeper than a standard plan review, considering factors like site conditions, access constraints, material availability, regulations, and scheduling. Conducting a comprehensive constructability analysis early in the project lifecycle empowers developers and builders to mitigate risks, streamline operations, and optimize project outcomes.
Key Components and Procedures
- Design Review: This phase involves a detailed examination of the project design, emphasizing constructability elements like accessibility, construction activity sequencing, and compatibility with existing infrastructure. Early initiation of constructability analysis during the pre-construction phase is recommended to proactively address any potential design deficiencies or conflicts that could hinder construction progress.
- Site Assessment and Risk Mitigation: Conducting a thorough assessment of the existing site conditions and constraints is crucial for anticipating potential challenges and allowing the capability to mitigate before it becomes timely and costly. Factors such as topography, soil conditions, environmental considerations, and utility locations are carefully evaluated to inform construction planning and resource allocation.
- Communication: As with any project, effective communication and collaboration are of the utmost important when going through the constructability analysis process. This includes between the owner, Civil Engineer, Geotechnical Engineer, contractors, and agencies.
- Value Engineering: Value Engineering is integral to constructability analysis, aiming to optimize project outcomes by maximizing value while minimizing costs. Through value engineering it can be explored how projects can save time, money, and resources. One example of this occurred during a recent street improvements project: The contractor made subgrade and found the material to be unsuitable. The subsequent report from the Geotechnical Engineer determined that an 8 inch section of asphalt and 17 inch section of base needed to be installed or the contractor could soil treat the base and pave with 8 inches of asphalt over 10 inches of base, which was “per plan”. Our team performed an analysis of the road section versus the installation of an option with soil cement. This analysis considered the additional cost of an extra report for a new road section, the added cost of base, knowing there was no guarantee that the new base grade would be suitable, and added time to construction, versus the additional cost of soil cement treatment and availability of the subcontractor to perform the work. It was decided that the time savings and cost impact of cement treated subgrade was the optimal direction for the project. Subgrade was treated within a week and paving was completed in approximately 2 weeks. The road section is currently stable with no failures in subgrade. Through the Value Engineering process our team was able to save our client a significant sum of money while also accelerating the project schedule by several weeks.
In summary, constructability analysis serves as a cornerstone in the successful execution of land development. By evaluating design plans, site conditions, and potential risks, developers can identify opportunities for streamlined processes, mitigation of potential challenges, and ultimately deliver projects that meet quality, schedule, and budget objectives.
For more information on how Murow Development Consultants can help your project from a Constructability Analysis standpoint, please contact our Director of Development Services, James Nelson at [email protected], or (509) 679-8337
