Our Role
As an architect, engineer or owner, you understand the importance of the project budget. Our construction cost estimating team can assist you in reducing the risk of project cost overruns throughout the course of the project. We achieve this by integrating our multi-disciplined staff of cost estimators, mechanical and electrical engineers, quantity surveyors and construction consultants with our state-of-the-art estimating software and technology.
All of our estimates are prepared “in-house” by our knowledgeable and experienced staff of cost estimators, engineers, quantity surveyors and project managers who have the ability to help clients manage their construction costs. We provide cost estimates at all typical design stages and for all construction disciplines including architectural, structural, civil, mechanical, electrical and plumbing.
We utilize state-of-the-art technologies for estimate preparation, leveraging the latest in Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology to prepare detailed and accurate estimates. This methodology involves the utilization of a software platform consisting of On Screen Take-Off (OST) by On Center for quantity take-off, Assemble for extraction of estimating data from 3D models and Interactive Cost Estimating (ICE) by RIB.
Independent Cost Estimates
As an independent cost estimating firm, our estimates are accurate, unbiased and objective. This helps lesson your level of risk and provides considerable peace of mind during design. For significant change-orders, we produce independent estimates to assist in the evaluation and negotiation process. With the use of On Screen Take-off, it enables us to efficiently confirm the correct quantities of both the additions and deductions within the change-order. As labor rates and mark-ups are typically predetermined in the contract, it only leaves the productivity factor for any negotiation. This process takes much of the emotion out of the negotiation process and gives the Owner the confidence in agreeing to an appropriate price.
Our Cost Estimating Process
Over the past 20+ years, we have compiled an extensive cost database, which we continuously update with costs obtained from recent project bid results, GMP reconciliation, change-order negotiations and regular material, and equipment and labor rate price checks. We use the latest project cost control techniques to establish realistic project budgets. We then carefully monitor the design of your project as it progresses through all phases to keep it in line with the approved budget.
Also, we assist in bid review and analysis and with implementing effective cost control measures during the construction and close-out/occupancy phases of the project.
Cost Estimating Can Help You...
Accuracy
Improved technology in both take-off and unit cost application to produce independent, accurate cost estimates.
Consistency
Our Cost Estimating approach is based on company-wide standards and proven methods.
Accountability
We have the ability to clearly show the data and process to support our estimate for easy analysis by others.
Flexibility
We have the ability to clearly show the data and process to support our estimate for easy analysis by others.
Independent
We offer unbiased, independent cost estimates in order to achieve an objective view of the project budget.
Collaborative
Cost estimating brings consistency, clarity and accuracy to build trust and establish strong working partnerships.
Peace of Mind
An independent cost estimate helps mitigate risk and provides considerable peace of mind during design.
Cost-Effective
Our estimators can help guide the design and construction phases in the most cost-effective manner.
Our Construction Cost Estimating Portfolio
Chicago Public Schools
Since 1996, we have provided Construction Cost Estimating services to the Chicago Public Schools. Total projects budgeted and estimated to date are valued at over $5 billion.
We provide cost estimates at all levels of design plus change-order analysis and recommendations. To date, we have completed over 4,000 projects for the Chicago Public Schools Capital Improvement Program.
Art Institute of Chicago
We have provided a wide array of services to The Art Institute of Chicago over a number of years. These services have included Cost Estimating services and fiscal year budgeting and for projects such as renovations to the European Decorative Arts Gallery, the Medieval Arms and Armor Gallery, the Japanese Gallery, the Ryerson Burnham Libraries Shelving Expansion, the Noguchi Fountain and the Prints and Drawings Galleries.
Milwaukee Streetcar
We have provided Cost Management, Infrastructure Management and Owners Representation services for the Milwaukee Streetcar project.
The initial Phase 1 alignment will connect the heart of the Central Business District with the Milwaukee Intermodal Station, high-density residential areas just north of downtown and the lakefront. Phase 2 will add a ½ mile extension extending service to the lakefront.
Frequently Asked Questions
An unbiased, independent, third-party cost estimate helps serve as a basis for comparison and assists in determining the reasonableness or unreasonableness of the bid or proposal(s) being evaluated. Consequently, it helps lessen your risk and brings greater assurance to the project at hand.
Our Cost Estimating team is comprised of a minimum of 14 estimators in one location, covering all design disciplines. Over the last 25+ years, we've developed a comprehensive catalog of historical construction costs on all types and sizes of buildings. Our history of repeat business with our clients is a testament that we exceed expectations.
Our Service Sectors
Healthcare
Government
Higher Education
Mission Critical
K-12
Commercial & Retail
Mixed-Use Development
Manufacturing
Senior Living
Residential
Aviation
Convention Centers
About The Concord Group
EXPERIENCED CONSTRUCTION CONSULTANTS
If you are looking for a construction consulting firm you can trust to deliver a successful project, you’ve come to the right place. Since 1996, we have built a reputation for delivering high quality, accurate and timely work for governmental agencies, healthcare organizations, educational facilities, institutional clients and architectural/engineering firms along with retail, residential and property development companies.
Our team of highly skilled construction cost consultants, project managers, cost estimators and engineers have successfully completed over 4,000 projects throughout the United States. Some of our projects include the Art Institute of Chicago, Lexington Convention Center, Milwaukee Streetcar, Welsh-Ryan Arena, Helen DeVos Children’s Museum and the Hub for Collaborative Medicine at the Medical College of Wisconsin. Headquartered in Chicago and with offices in Milwaukee, Grand Rapids, Columbus, Atlanta and Dublin (Ireland), we have provided construction consulting services throughout the entire Midwest, United States and Europe.
We specialize in providing an array of construction consulting services such as Owner's Representation, Cost Estimating and Cost Management, Infrastructure Management, Cost Segregation, Real Estate Advisory Services and Technical Services. We have formed strong and long-lasting relationships with many of our clients, some of whom have been with us since we started our business. We'd love to add you to that list.
