Estimating in construction once meant receiving a set of plans and sending back a dollar figure. However, today’s owners want to know, in detail, exactly what’s behind that number.

If an estimate isn’t based on accurate assumptions, then costly change orders and delays are inevitable. Getting the assumptions right requires deeper collaboration not just with owners, but with all key players of a project – including estimators.

“Client expectations are driving estimators to wear new hats,” says Craig Mulliniks, director of virtual construction for The Korte Company, an integrated design-build construction company.

“Our clients look not only to our architects, but also estimators for solutions that help them remain fiscally responsible within their capital budget while maximizing their services.”  

Of course, owners have always relied on accurate estimates. So what has changed that makes them expect more? And how are estimators and GCs responding to these new expectations?

What’s Changed?

Increasing Transparency

With more data available to them than ever before, owners are better equipped for effective decision-making and investments. For example, if an owner is considering building a new apartment or retail complex, plenty of data is available to help the owner choose the best location, the units that would likely attract renters in that market, and the amount of rent the target market is willing to pay.