Owners take on many responsibilities throughout the duration of a project ranging from marketing and branding to design and construction. From beginning to end, almost all decisions made are fueled by cutting costs, increasing efficiency and maximizing profits. One area where there is opportunity to cut costs and increase efficiency lyes in design and construction. Here are five ways to consider how to decrease costs and increase efficiency in project development.
#1) Use a more efficient project delivery system!
Compare and contrast the design build and design bid build construction methods to see which works best for you. Typically, design build companies are much more efficient and can end up saving a significant amount of time and money when it comes to project delivery. The money saved can then be reinvested elsewhere in the business to increase ROI and maximize profits. Compare and contrast D/B and D/B/B.
#2) Optimize the design and square footage!
When designing a space consider how it will be used and who will be using it. Most spaces will have to be functional for both employees and customers. Utilize the available square footage in a way that will permit an efficient work flow designed around your core business. Once it is decided how the space will be laid out, move on to the finishes and decor. Design the space using finishes that will enhance the user’s experience and keep them coming back. Take advantage of alternative materials that can be used within the room to decrease costs.
#3) Use the talents and insights of all participants collaboratively!
A project is born from the owner’s ideas and visions. His ideas are then developed by architect and executed by the general contractor. All parties involved will bring different strengths to the table and work together to achieve a common goal. Using an integrated project delivery team that combines design and construction services proves to be most efficient. Working together will help control costs, avoid budget over runs and optimize the efficiency of your project from start to finish. For more information see Benefits of using a Design Build Company.
#4) Optimize communication!
Have one point of contact for all your design and construction needs. It will allow you–the owner, to focus on your core business instead of mediating between architect and contractor. Energy can be put towards branding and marketing the business to ensure a profitable grand opening.
#5) Consider going green!
Get your building LEED certified by incorporating energy-efficient appliances and sustainable materials. Not only are there tax incentives that are available, but it will help cut costs on things such as water, electric and HVAC. All of these components will optimize efficiency of your building in the long run.
These are just a few tips provided by AnCor, Inc. and the designbuildblog.wordpress.com. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or comments you may have about our company and how we can decrease your costs and increase efficiency on your next project!
This work by AnCor, Inc. is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License. Based on a work at thedesignbuildblog.wordpress.com.
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Jenn of PersonalFitCoach.com
August 18, 2010
Interesting stuff. I’m joining a new gym and I’ll be sure to suggest this article for them.
ancorinc
August 18, 2010
Thanks for your feedback Jenn, glad you enjoyed the article! Keep checking for more post to come in the “5 Things To consider Series”