Optimising Project Success through Cost Estimation and Value Engineering: Complete Guide
Introduction
The decision to proceed with a project is often based almost exclusively on early conceptual cost estimates, which form the basis for cash flow projections and budget forecasts during the feasibility study. Unreliable estimates often result in significant overruns, leading to financial losses and compromised quality.
As potential projects are considered, organisations seek both **accurate cost estimates** and **opportunities to optimise life-cycle costs** while maintaining functionality and quality. Choosing the correct estimating method at each project stage is essential, alongside the systematic application of **value engineering** to enhance overall project value.
This course equips delegates with the skills to:
* Accurately estimate project costs.
* Eliminate unnecessary expenses.
* Link estimates to procurement methods.
* Apply value engineering to improve project return on investment (ROI).
Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
* Gain knowledge of techniques used in project estimating, from conceptual to detailed stages.
* Understand the types of estimates for progressive project cost accuracy.
* Identify contract types and risk allocation between parties.
* Apply incentive arrangements to achieve optimal outcomes.
* Grasp the core principles of Value Engineering (VE).
* Apply VE to ensure good practice across the project development process.
* Define and develop project scope with stakeholder input.
* Organise cost-relevant project information effectively.
* Report persuasively to management and stakeholders on value alternatives.
* Apply life-cycle costing to maximise project success.
* Objectively evaluate and present alternatives that enhance project value.
Content
Day One – Cost Estimating Basics
* Basic Project Management definitions
* Cost Selection Methods
* Key project terminology & preparing for success
* Project Cost Management and Cost Control
* Resource & Cost Allocation
* Inputs to Cost Estimation in Project Management
Day Two – Pricing, Contracts and Risk
* Inputs to Cost Budgeting
* Resource Requirements
* Direct & Indirect Project Costs
* Probability and Standard Deviation Formulae
* Contract Types and Risk Distribution
* Fixed Price Contracts & Cost-Plus Contracts
Day Three – Developing the Project Budget & Cost Control
* Risk Identification, Analysis & Management
* Qualitative Risk Analysis
* Quantitative Risk Analysis
* Risk & Probability Matrix
* Risk Response Strategies
* Cash Flow Management
Day Four – Approximate & Detailed Estimating Methods
* Material Estimating
* Civil/Construction Estimating
* Labour Estimating with Crews
* Detailed Estimating Techniques
* Procurement Management
* Risk Distribution in Contracting
* Project Risk Profiles
Day Five – Advanced Estimating Methods
* Building Information Modeling (BIM) for Estimating
* Cost Estimating Relationships (CER)
* Computer-Aided Estimating
* Control Charts for Monitoring and Estimating
Day Six – Framework for Applying Value Engineering in Projects
* Definition of Value and VE Principles
* Timing and Application of VE in Projects
* Stakeholder Analysis and Management for Project Definition
* Team Player Styles in VE
* Understanding Value, Cost, and Worth Relationships
* Overview of VE Phases
Day Seven – The Function Analysis Phase
* Information Phase: Steps and Procedures
* Developing a Value Engineering Job Plan
* Defining Project Constraints
* Function-Cost-Worth Analysis
* FAST Diagrams for Critical Project Components
* Cross-Functional Team Collaboration in VE
Day Eight – The Creative Phase
* Inspiring Creativity in Project Teams
* Creative Thinking Techniques in VE
* Reaching Consensus through Collaboration
* Risk Perception and Identification in Projects
* Paired Comparison Method for Prioritization
* Outputs of the Creative Phase
Day Nine – The Evaluation Phase
* Evaluation Methods in Projects
* Project Risk and Scenario Analyses
* Life-Cycle Costing Techniques
* Incremental Benefit-Cost Analysis for Decision-Making
* Effective Decision-Making in Project Environments
* Outputs of the Evaluation Phase
Day Ten – The Planning and Reporting Phases
* Developing and Assessing VE Proposals
* Action Planning: Roles and Responsibilities
* Reporting VE Findings to Senior Management and Stakeholders
* Incorporating VE Early in Project Phases
* Integrating VE with Continuous Improvement Approaches
Training Methodology
This programme uses a **highly interactive approach** that combines theory with practice to ensure participants gain maximum benefit. The methodology includes:
Lectures & Expert Insights – Clear explanation of key principles in cost estimation, budgeting, and value engineering.
Case Studies & Real-Life Examples – Learning from practical industry applications.
Hands-on Workshops – Applying cost estimating and VE techniques step by step.
Group Discussions & Team Exercises – Enhancing creativity, collaboration, and decision-making skills.
Simulation & Tools Practice – Using project management and estimating software to develop practical proficiency.
Action Learnin – Participants will work on live project scenarios to link learning with their own workplace.
This blend of methods ensures delegates walk away with **practical tools, frameworks, and confidence** to optimise project success in their own organisations.
Who Should Attend
This course is designed for professionals involved in **project cost management, procurement, and value optimisation, including but not limited to:
Project Managers & Team Leaders
Cost Estimators & Cost Engineers
Planning & Scheduling Engineers
Procurement & Contract Management Specialists
Quantity Surveyors & Construction Professionals
Financial Analysts & Budget Controllers
Engineers and Technical Staff involved in project planning and execution
Executives & Decision-Makers seeking to improve project value through cost management and VE
Enquiries and Registration
Enquiry at : admin@keleaders.com
Whatsapp: 0044 790 125 9494
For more details visit our website : www.keleaders.com
