Value engineering starts with a fair comparison

Establish the comparison criteria

Before comparing costs, agree which architectural and performance requirements must be retained. Different material specifications or review assumptions can make two prices appear comparable when the underlying scope is different.

Look beyond the initial price

Review the implications for details, fabrication, installation, access and maintenance. A useful option comparison makes the trade-offs visible rather than reducing the decision to a single number.

Keep a record of the decision

Document the selected option, the reasons for it and any items requiring further design or verification. This gives the owner, architect and construction team a shared basis for the next stage.

The appropriate scope and requirements depend on the particular project and appointment.