Photo Credit: Courtesy of H.R. Gray
Today’s complex construction projects undertaken by parks and recreation departments demand an experienced advocate to ensure the owner’s best interests in all aspects of the work. A constructability review (CR)—an independent, structured review of design documents by construction professionals—levels the playing field among project owners, contractors, vendors, and architects. The goal of a CR is to save the owner time and money by uncovering issues that may affect construction, such as errors, omissions, uncertainties, and conflicts. The review is designed to make certain that the plans and specifications reflect the project intention and documents are coordinated to reduce or eliminate ambiguities that may negatively impact the project. Benefits include reduced costs and schedule, a smoother construction process, and a reduction in public relations and legal issues.
How A Constructability Review Works
A CR is a critical-thinking exercise. It typically occurs in four phases, and is most effective when the design is 30-, 60-, and 100-percent complete. If project owners wait until the design is 100-percent complete to begin the review, implementing proposed changes may be unrealistic because of any associated redesign costs.
Early in the design, components of the project evolve quickly, and it is difficult for all the disciplines (e.g., architects, construction managers, designers, and contractors) to stay on top of the developing design. Hence, errors can occur. For example, a sidewalk leading from the parking lot to the building is required, yet is not shown on the plans. If this is not caught early in the process, the contractor would be entitled to a change order. The objective of the CR is to minimize or eliminate these situations and delay claims during construction by ensuring that the design documents are fully buildable.