Re-measurement

Test Your Knowledge

Re-measurement Quiz

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.

1. What is the main purpose of re-measurement in construction projects? a) To determine the total project cost. b) To measure the work completed in a specific period. c) To identify potential delays and cost overruns. d) To ensure the contractor is paid a fixed lump sum.

2. Re-measurement is most commonly used in which type of construction contract? a) Lump sum contracts b) Cost-plus contracts c) Unit price contracts d) Time and materials contracts

3. Which of the following is NOT a benefit of re-measurement? a) Fair compensation for the contractor b) Accurate cost tracking and forecasting c) Improved communication between contractor and client d) Eliminating the need for progress reports

4. What is the role of documentation in the re-measurement process? a) To record the contractor's expenses. b) To provide evidence of the work completed. c) To track the project schedule. d) To ensure the client is happy with the project.

5. Who is typically responsible for performing re-measurement? a) The project manager b) The client c) A qualified surveyor or engineer d) The contractor's accountant

Re-measurement Exercise

Scenario:

A construction project has a unit price contract for the following items:

• Concrete: $100 per cubic meter
• Brickwork: $50 per square meter
• Steel reinforcement: $200 per ton

During a specific progress period, the following work was completed:

• 50 cubic meters of concrete poured
• 200 square meters of brickwork laid
• 3 tons of steel reinforcement installed

Task:

Calculate the payment due to the contractor for this progress period based on the re-measurement data.

Techniques

Re-measurement in Construction Projects: A Comprehensive Guide

This guide explores re-measurement in construction, covering techniques, models, software, best practices, and case studies to provide a thorough understanding of this crucial process.

Chapter 1: Techniques

Re-measurement, the process of quantifying the work actually done in construction, relies on several key techniques to ensure accuracy and fairness. These techniques are largely dependent on the type of work being measured.

• Take-off Techniques: This involves extracting quantities from drawings and specifications before work begins. While not strictly re-measurement (as it's a pre-construction activity), it informs the basis for later re-measurement comparisons. Different take-off methods exist, including manual take-off, digital take-off using software, and hybrid approaches.

• Direct Measurement: This is the most common re-measurement technique. It involves physically measuring completed work on-site using tools like measuring tapes, laser distance meters, and total stations. Specific procedures are crucial, including establishing benchmarks, using consistent units, and documenting measurements meticulously.

• Indirect Measurement: Used when direct measurement is impractical or impossible, indirect measurement uses calculations and estimations based on available data like photographs, drawings, and partial measurements. This method is inherently less accurate and requires careful consideration of potential errors.

• Dimensional Measurement: This focuses on the precise dimensions of completed elements, crucial for tasks like concrete pouring, bricklaying, and steel fabrication. Accuracy here is paramount to avoid over or underpayment.

• Volumetric Measurement: Employed for tasks involving volume calculations, such as earthworks, concrete pours, and excavations. This involves calculating the volume of material moved or used based on measured dimensions.

• Area Measurement: Used for surface areas, such as flooring, roofing, and wall cladding. This often involves calculating the area of various shapes and accounting for overlaps and deductions.

• Quantity Surveying Techniques: These techniques are crucial for organizing, analyzing, and interpreting measured data. They involve the use of standardized measurement schedules, bill of quantities, and other documentation methods to ensure consistency and clarity.

Chapter 2: Models

Several models can be used to structure the re-measurement process and ensure its efficacy.

• Traditional Measurement Model: This relies on manual measurement and calculation, often using physical drawings and spreadsheets. This model can be prone to human error and is less efficient for large projects.

• Digital Measurement Model: This leverages technology like 3D scanning, laser scanning, and BIM (Building Information Modeling) software for efficient and accurate measurement. Data is processed digitally, minimizing manual errors and improving efficiency.

• Hybrid Measurement Model: This combines elements of both traditional and digital models. It might involve using digital tools for initial measurements but retaining manual verification or adjustments. This approach offers a balance between efficiency and accuracy.

• Client-Contractor Collaborative Model: This emphasizes transparency and collaboration between the client and contractor throughout the re-measurement process. Regular meetings and open communication are vital to ensure mutual understanding and prevent disputes.

The choice of model depends on factors like project size, complexity, budget, and available technology.

Chapter 3: Software

Numerous software solutions facilitate re-measurement, improving accuracy, efficiency, and data management.

• Quantity Takeoff Software: These programs automate the process of extracting quantities from drawings and specifications, reducing manual effort and minimizing errors.

• BIM Software: Building Information Modeling (BIM) software integrates various project data, including measurements, quantities, and costs. This allows for accurate tracking of progress and facilitates re-measurement by providing a centralized and up-to-date model.

• Cloud-Based Collaboration Platforms: These platforms enable real-time collaboration and data sharing between project stakeholders, improving communication and transparency during the re-measurement process.

• Measurement and Reporting Software: Specific software applications are designed for recording measurements, generating reports, and calculating payments based on re-measurement data.

Software selection should consider factors like compatibility, ease of use, functionality, and integration with existing project systems.

Chapter 4: Best Practices

Implementing best practices is crucial for successful re-measurement.

• Clear Contractual Agreements: The contract should clearly define the scope of work, payment terms, measurement methods, and frequency of re-measurement. Ambiguity should be avoided.

• Detailed Measurement Schedules: Detailed schedules specifying measurement points, methods, and units should be developed and agreed upon by all parties before the project commences.

• Qualified Personnel: The individuals responsible for re-measurement should be experienced and qualified in quantity surveying or a related field.

• Regular Site Visits: Regular site visits allow for real-time monitoring of progress and verification of measured quantities.

• Accurate Documentation: All measurements, calculations, and supporting documents (photographs, drawings, etc.) should be meticulously documented and archived for future reference.

• Transparent Communication: Open communication between the contractor, client, and other stakeholders is essential to resolve any discrepancies or disputes promptly.

Chapter 5: Case Studies

This section would include real-world examples of re-measurement in various construction projects, highlighting successful implementations, challenges faced, and lessons learned. Examples could include:

• A large-scale infrastructure project utilizing BIM for re-measurement.
• A smaller residential project using traditional measurement methods.
• A project where disputes arose due to inadequate contractual agreements or poor documentation.
• A case study demonstrating the cost-savings achieved through the use of digital measurement techniques.

Each case study would provide a detailed account of the project, the re-measurement methods used, the outcomes, and key takeaways. This would offer valuable insights and practical guidance for future projects.