A building cost estimation model based on cost significant work packages

Purpose – The objectives of this paper are to discuss the constraints stemming from the unstructured nature of the cost estimation practice in Turkey and introduce a generic computer aided building cost estimation model based on a cost significant technique for Turkish construction sector public projects in its detailed design phase.Design/methodology/approach – The research design was based on the simplified version of the bill of quantities method and a cost significant estimating model works on a cost database was suggested to overcome the problems. Underlying principles and basic steps of cost estimation based on cost significant work packages was explained by means of manual calculations.Findings – In order to automate the manual building cost estimation process, the software based on cost significant work packages was developed.Research limitations/implications – The software is currently in the testing phase and is being used for educational purposes. Making use of both public sector and current ma...