Conference Day Two
November 22, 2024

8:00 am Check-In & Networking

8:30 am Chair’s Opening Remarks

Harnessing Technology

8:40 am Investigating the Potential & Pitfalls of AI Application to Improve MEP Estimating Practices

  • Paul Martin Construction Cost Estimating & Analysis Instructor, University of Calfornia Davis
  • Kyle Homlms Preconstruction Manager, Southland Industries

Synopsis

• Diving deeper into the evolution of AI to establish how it can create efficiencies for quantity takeoff, data analytics, document review and generation

• Establishing best practice in data collection and management to prepare for AI

• Evaluating the challenges in utilizing AI for MEP estimating systems to better enable the future of technology

9:20 am Fireside Chat: Assessing Your Tech Stack to Create Efficiencies in Estimating Processes

Synopsis

• Assessing inefficiencies and gaps in current software to develop strategies for optimization and mitigation

• Understanding which integrations work well together and identifying those that don’t

• Evaluating current use of processes and best practices to understand whether investment in training or technology is the solution to improving efficiency

10:00 am Morning Refreshments

Improving Quality & Winning Work

11:00 am Tracking Completed Projects & Lost Bids to Improve the Feedback Loop, Optimize Bids & Win More Work

  • Tim Huff Chief Estimator, Nashville Machine

Synopsis

• Establishing a process of collecting customer feedback on bids to establish future estimate improvements

• Analyzing actual costs from completed projects to track accuracy

• Using market analysis as a tool to navigate the market pricing sensitivity to influence competitive bids

11:40 am Audience Discussion: Assessing Internal Quality Processes to Ensure Consistency in Estimating Standards

Synopsis

• Developing frameworks, templates and SOPs to streamline and standardize the estimating process

• Identify key checkpoints and review stages crucial for enhancing estimation accuracy of your team

• Strategies for maintaining quality standards across larger and expanding estimating teams

12:30 pm Networking Lunch

The Future of Estimating

1:20 pm Case Study: Policy Development & Modernization of Estimates for Complex Projects

Synopsis

• Explore complexities in estimating for projects like data centers, renewable energy, and infrastructure

• Improve estimate accuracy in large-scale projects with evolving facility requirements

• Harness emerging technology and data analytics in optimizing estimates for complex and fast-paced projects

2:00 pm Audience Discussion: Understanding Regional Variances to Create Tailored & Accurate Estimates

Synopsis

• Understanding how regional factors such as labor costs, material availability, and regulatory requirements impact estimating practices

• Explore the impact of market vertical and geographic location on estimating methodologies and processes

• Assessing differences in attracting, retaining and training employees from varying regions to compete with the local market standards

2:10 pm Chair’s Closing Remarks

2:30 pm End of Conference