FBA will outline a basic cost and timeline.  When you are ready to move forward, we will bid the professional design services (architecture and engineering services) from an exhaustive list of quality design partners that have been carefully vetted.

Throughout the design process we will work closely with our project partners to define scope, design to our desired budget, and ensure we meet the appropriate standards and quality the client expects and deserves.  At multiple points along the way we will provide updated drawings from the designers so the client is well informed of progress and can see the project coming together through the schematic design, design development, construction documents phases.

FBA will oversee the bidding process, which can be relatively simple or complicated, depending on what type of business the client operates.  A school or governmental client requires a much different procurement process than a non-profit or private entity requires.  In every scenario, we will ensure that we have competitive proposals from industry leading general contractors and/or specific trades to provide the most competitive price for the owner.  In non-governmental construction, we will negotiate with the bidders to achieve the most advantageous terms for the client.

FBA will work with our design partners as well in obtaining the necessary permits for construction and to ensure we are compliant with local laws and standards, ADA accessibility, fire and egress codes, and other project specific requirements.

Once we have contracted with the constructor(s) (general contractor or on smaller projects multiple specialty contractors) FBA will oversee the overall construction.  The constructor is responsible for providing and meeting the project schedule, and it is their responsibility to create and follow their construction schedule.  We do not determine their means and methods or orders of operation.  This is a liability that no owner assumes.  Rather, we observe the work to ensure the project is moving forward accurately and safely. 

Throughout construction we will make site visits as often as necessary and will participate in weekly progress meetings.  These meetings are coordinated by the constructor and involve the owner’s rep, designers, and key subcontractors.  We will:  review schedule, costs, and pay applications; discuss and assist on solving potential problems; and be informed on the look ahead schedule to know what work is upcoming.  

We will review contractor RFIs (Requests for Information) and submittals in collaboration with the architect to ensure the highest quality of materials and equipment are used on the project.  We will maintain the RFI and submittal logs for proper tracking.

Most importantly, FBA will handle the project financials for the client.  This includes reviewing and approving monthly pay applications and change order requests.  In construction, change orders can be inevitable and usually arise either due to unknown conditions or to take advantage of present conditions that in the future will be more costly and disruptive to the client.  Future Build Advisors takes change orders seriously, and with every potential change order we will provide a cost benefit analysis so the client can make an informed decision.  We want you to get the best possible project and will partner with you to keep you informed at every step.  Change orders will be authorized only with the client’s approval and you will know where the project stands financially at all times.  

As the project nears completion, Future Build Advisors will work closely with the design team, contractor, and client to button everything up.  We will develop a punch list of items that need to be adjusted, repaired, or updated to carry the project across the finish line.

As we complete the project, there are a number of steps necessary prior to making a final payment to the architect and contractor.  We will gather operating manuals, warranties, and permit sign offs for the project to be provided to the client.  We will coordinate training on new equipment as necessary so the client’s staff understands and can safely and correctly operate new equipment.  Finally, we will ensure that all new and existing systems are operational to ensure that client’s new space operates as envisioned.