This post is the fifth installment in a series of estimating basics. Designed for the new construction employee (engineer, estimator, and field personnel), we will take a high-level look at how the construction industry works, from the estimating point of view.

There’s always more than one way to do things, n’est ce pas? And scheduling types in estimates is no exception for the rule. So strap on your accent of choice, and let’s get down to it.

Scheduling is a major part of the estimating and execution phase, but it is important to understand the two basic types of schedules, pre- and post-bid.

• Pre-bid: There is a distinctive advantage to creating a pre-bid schedule – despite not containing a high level of detail, they can help decide if the job can be performed within the allotted time frame. If the determination is that it cannot, then a discussion regarding liquidated damages may ensue.

Pre-bid schedules also help in determining the total time for supervising costs based upon the total length of the job, rather than a bid item.

• Post-bid: Some agreements require that a project schedule is included in the contract. If this is the case, it must be submitted at the start of the job. This schedule determines the critical path. “Critical path” is defined as “the longest path of the schedule.” Any change in time in any one item will impact the end date of the schedule. This is important for the owner to decide if a request for extension of time is warranted. If the work that is part of the request for time extension is not on the critical path, it may be difficult to convince the owner of your request.

Another advantage of the post-bid schedule is it also allows the owner to be aware of the progress of the project.

At the same time, the post-bid schedule is also benefits the contractor. He also needs to keep track of the progress of the project. Changes in the schedule can be a basis for extra work or extensions of time.