Developing a Computerized Framework for Applying Value Engineering in Construction Projects.

Document Type : Research Studies

Authors

1 Civil Engineer, Arab Contractors Company, Egypt

2 Professor, Structural Eng. Department, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt

3 Minister of Technical Education and Training

Abstract

This paper aims at developing a computerized system for applying the Value Engineering (VE) in construction projects. Simplified, quick and accurate system is designed to be used at any problem in normal day-to-day situations. The computerized tool is designed using Visual Basic for Application on Microsoft Excel. This system could be applied in (construction, sales, energy…). It is designed for the evaluation and comparison between one or more elements by identifying and categorizing element's functions to be achieved by the best ways. The developed system creates automatically the Function Analysis System Technique (FAST) diagram. Also, it decreases the total cost considering the life-cycle cost (LCC) analysis through innovative alternatives without affecting the basic functions. In all system applications, the VE inputs data that entered and solved is automatically stored and worked as a reference for future needs.
A real-life construction project is used as a case study involving concrete ceiling's alternatives (solid slab and flat slab with different thicknesses). The results of applying the proposed system saved about 30% of project time which means reduction in project cost and at the same time achieving the required political, performance and quality targets.
Keywords: value engineering VE, FAST diagram, life cycle cost LCC, alternative ranking, VE computerized

Main Subjects

MEJ- Mansoura Engineering Journal
Volume 40, Issue 3
September 2015
Pages 74-87

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