The survey/investigations carried out will usually cover topographical surveys,
site exploration, physical data, alternative solutions, outline programme and estimates of cost.
A point to be borne in mind: due to tight budgets, surveys are sometimes
incomplete or somewhat optimistic. This could result in the project not being as
satisfactory as expected. Conversely, a good consultant might come up with an
alternative idea which solves the initial problem neatly: A consultant who has been
asked to investigate the dimensions for a new road might come with the idea of a car
free town (at least parts of it) which might, in fact be cheaper than the project for
which he was asked to investigate. Question: should he be allowed to pursue the
matter, or be bluntly told to just address the Terms of Reference for which he was
engaged?
22.7.4 Outline Programme
In the preparation of an outline programme for the detailed design and execution of
the works, the Consultant must take into account the supply position of capital, plant,
equipment and labour, and also bear in mind available methods of construction,
temporary works, and site conditions. The factors are interdependent in that each
may influence the others. The outline programme must be so drafted as to be
sufficiently realistic for its purpose at this stage while not imposing unnecessary
restrictions on contractors who will be tendering for the work later on.
22.7.5 Estimates of Cost
The Consultant will have to prepare estimates of the capital cost and the annual
operating and maintenance costs of the proposed works, and of land, buildings,
plant, machinery, so that the economic viability of alternative schemes or sites can be
assessed.
22.7.6 Consultant’s Report or Feasibility Study
When he has completed his investigations, the Consultant will have enough information to show to the Promoter a project study outlining the scheme which best suits
the Promoter’s requirements, according to the Consultant. If this technical study is
accompanied by a cost estimate, together with its financial prospects, the Promoter
should be able to visualise a holistic view of the project.
22.7 Project Assessment
639
site exploration, physical data, alternative solutions, outline programme and estimates of cost.
A point to be borne in mind: due to tight budgets, surveys are sometimes
incomplete or somewhat optimistic. This could result in the project not being as
satisfactory as expected. Conversely, a good consultant might come up with an
alternative idea which solves the initial problem neatly: A consultant who has been
asked to investigate the dimensions for a new road might come with the idea of a car
free town (at least parts of it) which might, in fact be cheaper than the project for
which he was asked to investigate. Question: should he be allowed to pursue the
matter, or be bluntly told to just address the Terms of Reference for which he was
engaged?
22.7.4 Outline Programme
In the preparation of an outline programme for the detailed design and execution of
the works, the Consultant must take into account the supply position of capital, plant,
equipment and labour, and also bear in mind available methods of construction,
temporary works, and site conditions. The factors are interdependent in that each
may influence the others. The outline programme must be so drafted as to be
sufficiently realistic for its purpose at this stage while not imposing unnecessary
restrictions on contractors who will be tendering for the work later on.
22.7.5 Estimates of Cost
The Consultant will have to prepare estimates of the capital cost and the annual
operating and maintenance costs of the proposed works, and of land, buildings,
plant, machinery, so that the economic viability of alternative schemes or sites can be
assessed.
22.7.6 Consultant’s Report or Feasibility Study
When he has completed his investigations, the Consultant will have enough information to show to the Promoter a project study outlining the scheme which best suits
the Promoter’s requirements, according to the Consultant. If this technical study is
accompanied by a cost estimate, together with its financial prospects, the Promoter
should be able to visualise a holistic view of the project.
22.7 Project Assessment
639