APPA Library

"A Cradle-to-Grave Integrated Approach to Using UNIFORMAT II"
Author: Schneider, Richard C.,Cain, David A.,
Published In: Facilities Manager
Date: May/June 2009

The ASTM E1557/UNIFORMAT II standard is a three-level, function-oriented classification which links the schematic phase Preliminary Project Descriptions (PPD), based on Construction Standard Institute (CSI) Practice FF/180, to elemental cost estimates based on R.S. Means Cost Data. With the UNIFORMAT II Standard Classification for Building Elements and Related Site work, stakeholders (owners, operators, design professionals, contractors) can effectively start adding value engineering to the process earlier, at the schematic design phase of a project--before irreversible decisions are taken and numerous cost-saving opportunities lost. The new and enhanced four level version of UNIFORMAT II was released in 1993 by American Society for Testing and Material (ASTM). In essence it was refined around a "holistic" life-cycle approach or cradle-to-grave concept. This article presents one such approach for both Higher Education and one of the most progressive asset management governmental agencies, the U.S. National Park Service (NPS). Since higher education is not a single agency and a bit like herding cats, this article makes a compelling argument to adopt this integrated approach from planning through to construction, operations and demolition. UNIFORMAT II currently integrates and overlays all five phases of the Building Life Cycle: (1) planning; (2) programming; (3) design; (4) construction; and (5) operations. With ASTM and CSI supporting the use of UNIFORMAT in North America, it is anticipated that the classification will gain widespread acceptance and save the construction industry significant sums of money resulting from the use as the industry gold standard. (Contains 8 figures.)

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