COST CONTROL IN BUILDING DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

The complexity of modern construction projects necessitates
a thorough understanding of cost control principles to ensure
successful project delivery. This book, “Cost Control in Building
Design and Construction” aims to provide a comprehensive guide to understanding, managing, and optimizing costs throughout the lifecycle of a construction project. The text is designed to serve as a valuable resource for students, professionals, and practitioners in the fields of construction management, civil engineering, and architectural design.

In Chapter 1, we begin by exploring the fundamental concepts of
cost types and components. This chapter lays the groundwork by
defining what constitutes a cost, examining the elements that make up costs, and understanding the relationship between price and cost. Special attention is given to various cost elements such as labor, materials, and equipment, along with detailed discussions on unit costs and cost line items.

Chapter 2 delves into project cost and estimation, emphasizing the structuring of project costs and the detailed processes involved in cost estimation. This includes methodologies for preparing accurate cost estimates, the significance of quantity take-offs (QTOs), and the integration of expert opinions in the estimating process.

In Chapter 3, we shift our focus to design economics and cost
planning, analyzing the critical relationship between time, cost, and quality. This chapter discusses how design decisions impact project costs and presents strategies for effective cost planning during the pre-design and budgeting stages.

Chapter 4 addresses cost management for pre-contract and post-
fixation projects. Here, we discuss various estimation techniques tailored for different project types, including civil engineering and building projects. The chapter also explores public-private
partnership (PPP) models and private finance initiatives (PFIs),
providing real-world case studies to illustrate key concepts.

Chapter 5 introduces the role of Building Information Modelling
(BIM) in construction cost control. This chapter covers the potential of BIM for financial control, strategies for implementing BIM in quantity surveying, and the integration of BIM with traditional cost management practices. Additionally, it explores the use of big data in managing building costs, highlighting the benefits and challenges associated with leveraging advanced data analytics in construction
projects.

The completion of this book has been a collaborative effort, drawing on the expertise and insights of numerous professionals in the construction industry. We extend our deepest gratitude to my colleagues, students, and family for their unwavering support and encouragement. Special thanks go to the technical reviewers whose meticulous feedback has significantly enhanced the quality and accuracy of this text.