Value engineering, value analysis, value methodology. There are a number of names for the same concept, but one thing is certain. Utilizing knowledge and experience to add value to a project or process can deliver a better end result.
The value engineering concept developed during World War II as General Electric purchasing engineers looked for material and component substitutes due to time shortages. Value engineering is now a systematic and organized approach to improve projects, products and processes. It aims to achieve essential functions at the lowest life cycle cost while still maintaining performance, quality, reliability and safety.
Because of the resulting reduced time and lower costs while still assuring quality, many industries embrace value engineering including:
- Building designers and contractors
- Auto manufacturers
- Chemical companies
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Federal and local governments
Enhancing Value Every Step of the Way
TP Mechanical’s Vice President for Cincinnati and Dayton Operations Mayur Kadakia sees first-hand how the company collaborates with clients to provide value engineering on a project-by-project basis. “Our team seeks and achieves the optimum balance between function, cost, performance and safety.”
Our emphasis on value engineering starts at the very beginning. TP Mechanical’s team of estimators recommend a variety of options to save our clients money while still ensuring end-goal quality. Once a plan is approved, our team of skilled CAD designers then leverage their training in the latest technology, equipment and design techniques to create an efficient, effective design. We employ licensed professional engineers as well as work with outside engineering firms to review designs.
Value engineering can come in a variety of forms – from a decision to use a water-saving shower valve in a college residence hall to recommending a point-of-use water heater instead of traditional tank heaters in a hotel. For each project, a cost-benefit analysis can provide construction managers and owners with the details they need to determine the value of each choice.
TP Mechanical’s designers also stay on top of regulatory rules and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) guidelines in order for clients to stay in compliance and achieve green status. Check out our portfolio of projects to see the results for yourself and then contact us for more information on how we can make value engineering work for your next project.
