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4. Approach | Methodology <br />Phase-by-Phase Cost Estimating Process <br />Initial Budget Development. <br />Establishes the financial framework <br />early in the project lifecycle based on <br />scope, schedule, and available data. <br />Value Engineering. PDS collaborates <br />with clients to explore cost-saving <br />alternatives without compromising <br />quality or functionality. Focus is placed <br />on maximizing value and efficiency <br />through smart design solutions. <br />Construction Document Phase. A <br />detailed estimate is developed based <br />on final construction documents, <br />ensuring pricing accuracy before <br />bidding. <br />Inflation and Material Cost Analysis. <br />Accounts for fluctuating market <br />conditions, material availability, and <br />inflation trends to avoid cost surprises <br />during construction. <br />Constructability Review. Evaluates <br />plans from a contractor’s perspective <br />to identify issues that could increase <br />costs during construction. Helps <br />minimize change orders and delays. <br />Preliminary and Design Development <br />Phases. Costs are refined as the <br />design progresses, ensuring accurate <br />tracking and early identification of <br />potential budget risks. <br />Final Deliverable: Comprehensive Estimate Package <br />The final delivery is a comprehensive estimate package that serves as a critical benchmark for <br />contractor negotiations and bid evaluations. It enables precise comparison between bids, ensuring <br />competitive, fair pricing and supporting informed decision-making throughout the procurement <br />process. <br />Benefits of PDS Cost Control Approach <br /> »Reduces risk of budget overruns <br /> »Enhances decision-making through reliable data <br /> »Promotes transparency and trust <br /> »Supports successful project delivery within financial constraints. <br />This approach has consistently delivered measurable results. During the <br />FLL Westside Water Main Expansion Loop project which included design, <br />permitting, bidding, and construction phase services for a 12-inch ductile iron <br />pipe (DIP) water main loop. PDS provided comprehensive engineering support <br />from preliminary design through project close-out. This included preparation of <br />60% and 100% construction plans, subsurface utility engineering (SUE) conflict <br />analysis, cost estimates, and project schedules. During the bidding phase, PDS <br />identified cost-saving opportunities through a detailed Contract Price Element <br />Adjustment Memorandum (CPEAM), resulting in over $500,000 in savings for <br />Broward County. <br />Over $500,000 in project cost savings <br />64