Assignment 1-First Half

MSc Construction Project Management

Module : SUM 104

Project Planning & Control

Assignment 1- First Half

Name

: Buddika Mendis

Student Number : 1510533

Date

Buddika Mendis- Student ID 1510533

: 06/03/2016

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Assignment 1-First Half

Content
1.0 My best post to forum .......................................................................................................... 3
2.0 My best reply to other members post ................................................................................. 4

Buddika Mendis- Student ID 1510533

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Assignment 1-First Half

1.0 My best post to forum

Please find below my best post to the questions in the forum from topic 1 to 4

Task 3: Cost estimation approaches

by BUDDIKA MENDIS (1510533) - Saturday, 20 February 2016, 1:33 PM
As per the readings, selection of top down or bottom up estimation method is based on the
particular circumstance. Top down method is obviously quick and fast; hence less in
accuracy. The level of accuracy is totally depending on the availability of data and
competence of the estimator. As an example; if an organization has data for a completed
hospital project and now looking for the cost of another hospital. On this case, previous cost
data can be used on pro-rata basis in terms of a functional unit. Eg: number of beds or
number of floor areaetc, but further to pro-rata calculation, the key factor is how to adjust
the other differences such as quality, specifications, standards, geographical impactetc
between two buildings other than size/unit difference. This is where the service of
experienced estimators/Quantity surveyors are required. With my understanding, top down
method is more often used in early stages (inception/feasibility study/ schematic design) of a
project to set the budget for a client.
In case of bottom up estimations, the level of accuracy and transparency is considerably
higher than tom down method. It takes more time as well as cost more money and resources.
This is used during detailed design phase for cost checking purpose. Also, contractors use
bottom up method for pricing tenders. It allows to calculate the basic inputs (labour,
materials, equipmentsetc) for each sub divided item/task, then approach to the final/total
cost of the item/project.
With my experience at present company (contractor side) as a Quantity Surveyor, I use to
apply both above methods. For budgetary purpose, i apply top down method in order to
provide the client a guestimated price for maintenance work with past experience and
recorded cost data. But when it comes to tender stage, I start estimation from very basics by
calling quotations from suppliers for materials, analysing the rates with labour productivity
normsetc

Buddika Mendis- Student ID 1510533

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Assignment 1-First Half

2.0 My best reply to other members post
Please find below my best reply to other members posts in the forum, from topic 1 to 4

Re: Task 2 - BIM

by BUDDIKA MENDIS (1510533) - Sunday, 21 February 2016, 1:31 PM

Hi Sin,
I agree with your concern that utilizing BIM will avoid the manual errors while take off
quantities and estimation. Already, there are few computer software available in the market
(Eg: 3D Autocad versions) which calculate the basic dimensions/quantities automatically
after producing 3D phase of drawings. But How BIM will be different from these software is
the level of integration of information across the all functions of project management process
through all stages of project. It means, once the drawings are completed and all basic
information are fed, a single model can be used from inception to final completion, even up
to maintenance stage.
on this case, the most difficult and important session will be to initiate the necessary
information (drawings, specifications, schedules, cost data..etc) at early stage of the project.
The accuracy of all later activities will be based on that. Obviously this process will be more
costly and time taking. Do you agree with my argument?
Buddika

Buddika Mendis- Student ID 1510533

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