February 13, 2024
Maximizing Project Efficiency with Constructability Reviews
A Proactive Approach to Reducing Costs and Mitigating Risks
Construction projects often encounter unforeseen challenges that lead to increased costs and delays. A constructability review is a proven strategy for mitigating these risks before work begins, ensuring a more efficient and cost-effective project. By evaluating a project’s design, specifications, and scheduling in advance, our team helps owners reduce unnecessary expenses, improve efficiency, and enhance safety throughout construction.
Why Conduct a Constructability Review?
When preparing a bid, contractors consider numerous factors such as project scope, location, subsurface conditions, material availability, and labor requirements. However, risk remains a key variable that can significantly impact pricing. Contractors often adjust bids to account for uncertainties, such as:
- Vague or contradictory plan details.
- Uncommon construction practices.
- Unclear contract terms or missing specifications.
- Unrealistic completion timelines.
- Utility conflicts or restricted job site access.
A constructability review helps reduce these risks by identifying potential issues in advance, ensuring designs align with industry standards, and refining contracts for clarity—allowing for more competitive and accurate bids.
Key Benefits of Constructability Reviews
A well-executed constructability review focuses on:
- Identifying potential design issues before construction begins.
- Standardizing construction methods to streamline work.
- Enhancing coordination among stakeholders.
- Improving safety by addressing risk factors early.
- Refining cost estimates and project schedules.
- Considering future maintenance needs.
Our team integrates these reviews at multiple project stages to ensure optimal outcomes.
When Should a Constructability Review Be Performed?
Concept Stage: Establishing a Strong Foundation
At the earliest phase of a project, our team assesses critical factors such as:
- Optimal project alignment to minimize risks.
- Traffic impact and potential alternative designs.
- Feasibility of interim completion dates.
Addressing these factors early can significantly improve project feasibility and cost-effectiveness.
Design Stage: Fine-Tuning Efficiency
During the design phase, our team conducts an in-depth review to:
- Eliminate unnecessary complexities.
- Resolve conflicting or unclear details.
- Ensure adequate space for construction operations.
- Identify opportunities to consolidate project phases.
A thorough constructability review at this stage reduces costly change orders and delays once construction begins.
Contract Stage: Strengthening the Agreement
Even a well-designed set of plans can be undermined by a poorly structured contract. Our team reviews contract terms to ensure:
- Realistic completion deadlines.
- Clear expectations for bid items and payment structures.
- Proper use of lump sum versus unit price bidding.
By improving contract clarity, owners can avoid inflated bids and costly disputes.
Case Studies: Cost Savings in Action
Buncombe County Saves $5 Million
In North Carolina, a highway project initially included temporary structures that would be built and later removed, driving up costs. A constructability review identified a more efficient traffic phasing plan, eliminating unnecessary structures and saving $5 million.
Orange County Saves $21 Million
An abutment reconstruction project in California was originally estimated at $28 million. After our team’s constructability review, a design modification was proposed, reducing project costs to $6.8 million—a $21 million savings.
These examples demonstrate how constructability reviews directly lead to substantial cost reductions and improved project efficiency.
A Collaborative Approach for Maximum Impact
A successful constructability review involves input from:
- Project owners.
- Design teams.
- Right-of-way experts.
- Utility engineers.
- Environmental specialists.
By engaging all stakeholders early, our team ensures that final project plans and contracts are clear, accurate, and optimized for success.
Final Takeaway: Smart Planning Saves Time and Money
Constructability reviews are not just a precaution—they are a strategic investment that leads to:
- Fewer project delays.
- Reduced construction costs.
- More accurate contractor bids.
- Safer, more efficient project execution.
Our team provides tailored constructability reviews that fit each project’s size, complexity, and budget. Whether for a large-scale infrastructure project or a smaller development, we help clients achieve their goals while minimizing risks and unexpected costs.
Meet our expert
Randy McKinney, PE, CPM
Assistant Vice President, Asheville Area Practice Lead

Randy McKinney, PE, CPM
Assistant Vice President, Asheville Area Practice Lead

Randy McKinney, PE, CPM
Assistant Vice President, Asheville Area Practice Lead

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