Cost estimation for steel structure modelling:
What is the most important

When selecting a contractor for a steel structure project, three key factors come to the forefront:

the experience and competence of the team
the project timeline and
the project cost

Correct cost estimation is crucial for the successful execution of any project.
The accuracy of the assessment directly depends on the quality of the input data provided by the Customer. Incomplete or incorrect information may lead to errors in modeling and static calculations, which may affect the accuracy of the assessment and the correctness of design decisions, and the overall quality of the project.
Errors in the data provided can lead to significant deviations during the design phase, increasing the cost to correct these issues.

The Impact of Initial Data on Cost Estimation

The quality of the initial data directly affects the accuracy of modeling, the correctness of structural analysis, and the overall quality of the project. Errors in the data provided can lead to significant deviations during the design phase, increasing the cost to correct these issues.

What is required for Steel Structural Project Estimation?

In order to ensure a prompt and accurate estimate of the cost of the project, we would ideally like to receive the following information from the client:

Detailed Scope of Work:

- Structural Analysis: Who will perform the structural analysis? If our company is doing it, please specify the software required. We usually work with Dlubal RFEM
- Modeling in Tekla Structures: Describe exactly what needs to be modeled and to what extent.

- Joints calculation: Indicate who is responsible for calculating the connections. If it is the customer, we need to know the data format and parameters (bolt sizes, weld sizes, flange thicknesses).
If our company is designing the joints, please clarify how you expect us to do this. Whether it is a manual calculation or the use of specialized software (e.g. IdeaStatica), and in what format the report should be delivered.

Steel structural Drawings:

What types of drawings need to be developed? General arrangement drawings, erection drawings, assembly drawings
Do you have special formats, templates, or specific requirements for drawing design for steel structures?
Are there any specific requirements for corrosion protection (e.g., galvanization or painting)?
Please specify the language in which the drawings should be prepared.

Project Timeline:

Indicate the planned start date of steel structural design project and final completion deadline.
If the project is divided into phases, describe the sequence of modeling work.

Collaboration:
Is it necessary to work through Tekla Model Sharing so the Client can monitor the progress? Or is it sufficient to send the Tekla model in .ifc format?

Necessary Initial Data
To begin work, you will be asked to provide a model in .IFC format. If a model is not available, detailed drawings, including plans and sections, will be required.