Cost Database Interface Skill

Purpose

The Cost Database Interface Skill provides access to construction cost databases for unit costs, crew productivity rates, and regional cost adjustments.

Capabilities

• RS Means database integration
• Unit cost lookup
• Regional cost adjustments
• Crew productivity rates
• Equipment rental rates
• Material price indices
• Historical cost trending
• Location factor application

Usage Guidelines

When to Use

• Developing cost estimates
• Benchmarking project costs
• Adjusting for location
• Forecasting costs

Prerequisites

• Database access configured
• Cost categories identified
• Location factors known
• Time period specified

Best Practices

• Use current data
• Apply appropriate factors
• Verify for local conditions
• Document cost sources

Process Integration

This skill integrates with:

• Construction Cost Estimation

Configuration

cost-database-interface:
  databases:
    - rs-means
    - dodge
    - eni
  data-types:
    - unit-costs
    - productivity
    - equipment
    - materials
  adjustments:
    - location
    - time
    - size

Output Artifacts

• Cost data extracts
• Location factors
• Productivity data
• Cost indices