Also referred to as a Feasibility Study, the Study Phase
generates the project definition, the cost model,
and the scope of work. With this information the
university makes major decisions about project direction.
The schedule for programming, design and
construction may also be drafted at this time.
The Study Phase, typically conducted by the planning
staff at WMU Campus Facilities, includes comparative
research into similar projects at other institutions,
interviews with the intended user groups, exploration
of potential building sites, and identification of
possible effects on existing university systems, such
as parking, building services, and utilities. The project
is also evaluated as to its appropriateness relative
to the WMU Campus Master Plan.
Definitions
Project Definition :
a description of the end result of the construction
project. It will include a summary of all programs,
departments, services, and personnel that will use
or will be housed in the facility, what functions
and activities are to take place there, what support
utilities or infrastructure need to provided (both
TO the facility and INSIDE the facility), and an estimated
timeline for development and completion.
Infrastructure : in general terms, refers to
all services provided to the building or site that
are necessary to operation, such as utilities,
roads and stormwater management. Can also refer to
all the building services and utilities located "in
the walls" that must be in place before facility
can be operational, such as phone and
data lines, plumbing, and mechanical and electrical
systems.
Cost Model : a strategy for establishing the
project budget and/or for prioritizing the assignment
of funds. The cost model can help determine whether
or not the project scope can be accomplished within
the project budget.
Scope of Work : the description of what is
to be done to accomplish the project. In contractual
terms, Scope of Work is
the description of the specific services
to be provided by the professional service provider,
such as an architecture/engineering firm, a construction
manager or a contractor.
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