Why “Time-to-Estimate” Is the New Critical Path

We talk a lot about speed in execution, but very little about speed in estimation.

In reality, many projects are already delayed before Day 1—stuck in a loop of slow quantity take-offs, version-chasing, and manual spreadsheet gymnastics. Meanwhile:

• Owners are asking for more options and faster turnarounds

• Design changes land late but still demand “updated cost by tomorrow”

• Bidding windows are shrinking while competition is rising

• Teams are burning weekends just to keep up with revisions

The result?
Teams that know how to estimate accurately… but can’t do it fast enough to stay competitive.

This is where quick estimating tools stop being “nice-to-have software” and become core project infrastructure:

• Faster bid/no-bid decisions → Less time wasted on low-probability work

• Rapid re-estimation on design changes → Fewer surprises in approvals and funding

• Standardized structures & templates → Better handover from pre-con to delivery teams

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Streamlining the approval process for design changes while maintaining quality and functionality can be challenging, but it can be achieved with a combination of clear communication, efficient workflows, and robust tools. Here are some strategies:
1. Establish Clear Guidelines and Criteria
Create a set of design standards and guidelines that everyone must follow. This ensures consistency and reduces the need for extensive reviews.
Define what criteria need to be met for a design change to be approved. This could include functionality, usability, aesthetic alignment, and technical feasibility.

2. Create a Structured Workflow
Use project management tools like Trello, Asana, or Jira to automate the workflow. Define stages such as submission, review, revision, and approval.
Assign clear roles and responsibilities within the approval process. For example, designate specific team members for initial reviews, technical assessments, and final approvals.

3. Implement Version…

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I am a Civil-Structural Engineer with over 15 years of experience diagnosing, designing, and directing projects involving building integrity and rehabilitation.

My expertise lies in structural investigation and forensic engineering — uncovering root causes of cracks, settlement, material deterioration, and structural distress in existing buildings. I prepare and execute comprehensive investigation reports, recommend retrofitting solutions, and ensure compliance with national codes and safety standards.

As the Principal Engineer and Project Director of Sterk Corporation, I lead teams that deliver high-precision analysis and engineering reports for commercial, residential, and industrial structures.

I am passionate about projects that protect lives, restore confidence in structures, and preserve the built environment through technical accuracy, sustainability, and sound engineering judgment.

Specialties: Structural Forensics | Building Diagnostics | Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) |…

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