Nothing causes more anxiety than runaway costs on a major construction project. Controlling costs requires technical know-how and diplomatic skill. But before you can control costs, you must first be able to predict them accurately and without internal bias.

OAI provides independent professional estimating (Quantity Surveying) services for all types of projects. We believe that effective estimating is an essential part of project planning, and we choose the estimating system best suited to each individual project. OAI delivers effective cost control services through our in-depth involvement during the early budgeting, planning, pre-design, and post-contract phases.

A typical analysis by our skilled estimators could include review and consultation on:

• Cost effectiveness of the design
• Constructability of the proposed design elements
• Means and methods of construction
• Impact on contractor schedule and construction sequencing
• Contract packaging and procurement strategies
• Effect of market and field conditions on design and construction

Our clients also use OAI's estimating services prior to solicitation of bids to ensure that the project is within budget limitations. And prior to construction start, we review and report on construction contract items including:

• Contractor's Schedule of Values
• Project cost-loaded schedule
• Monthly cash flow projection
• Bonds, insurance, etc.
• Existing contracts between the Owner/Architects and Contractor
• Contractor retention requirements
• Safety and quality requirements

The scope of OAI's services may change over the course of a project, but our focus at all times remains on delivering comprehensive, coordinated, and cost-effective solutions to make your project a success.

Project Scheduling

Every construction project requires a detailed integrated process involving planning, design, procurement, construction, and occupancy. Individual tasks can be identified, but they are interdependent. Professional project scheduling must take into account the full range and give equal emphasis to time and resource management. OAI's schedules are structured to provide ease of control and monitoring.

Scheduling software experts on our staff choose the appropriate tool for each project based on project needs and client preferences. Primavera Project Planner, Microsoft Project, Sure Track, and TimeLine are all state-of-the-art tools that allow for a full range of estimating and reporting to track components and monitor the critical path.

Project Risk Analysis and Life Cycle Costing

Risk analysis is a critical part of project planning, and evaluating capital risk is no place for "ball park" or "gut feel" estimates. OAI provides professional staff with expertise in the Monte Carlo Simulation, a proven statistical method to calculate financial contingencies on the project.

OAI's life cycle costing methodology examines major cost items through the entire life of a system from inception to disposal. We follow the money from research and development through design, construction, operation and maintenance, to final disposal. Knowing the total cost is important to a complete understanding of the project's economic impact.