Proposals are often evaluated first for the price, and then for other factors, such as ability to deliver on schedule, relevant past performance, team capabilities, etc. However, what any experienced client can tell you is that the low-cost provider often submits change orders, or the cost otherwise increases through project delays or other challenges. And keeping that cost under control can seem like a constant battle.
This dynamic is especially true in the construction industry, where a multitude of actions have to go right in order to deliver on time and on budget, often involving variables that are out of everyone’s control. A weather event can delay a crucial install, which then has the potential to disrupt timing for every subsequent task.
One of the most under-communicated benefits of Off-Site Construction is “cost certainty.” While OSC may provide cost savings compared to traditional on-site construction methods, the bigger value is in cost certainty – removing variables that can cause costs to increase once the deal is approved, giving owners and constructors confidence that the modular units will be delivered at the price quoted.
Of course, costs on OSC projects can change based on scope adjustments, but those are variables within everyone’s control. And if developed collaboratively using the Design Assist model, the OSC provider provides cost transparency to the entire project team as the scope evolves. This enables the project team to balance scope, schedule and cost in order to achieve overall project goals. Again, there is certainty with the quoted price.
At Epsilon, we know cost certainty delivers at least as much value to owners and constructors as cost savings. Cost savings are a short-term bet, while cost certainty is an investment in stability and consistency throughout the preconstruction and construction process. Contact Epsilon today to learn more about our cost-certainty approach to designing, manufacturing, delivering and installing central utility systems.
