One of the common misconceptions in construction is that the project budget is determined during execution. In reality, most cost overruns begin long before the first excavation takes place. The decisions made during the design phase—such as system selection, material choices, and defining the scope of work—are the primary factors that determine project cost, not prices or market fluctuations alone, as many believe.
Engineering studies indicate that nearly 70% of a project’s total cost is locked in before construction begins, even before concrete, steel, or labor reach the site. Choices related to design approach, construction systems, material types, finishing levels, and routing of services form the backbone upon which all expenses are built. Any ambiguity at this stage inevitably turns into multiplied costs during execution.
For this reason, a smart budget is not merely a number—it is clarity of vision. It starts with accurately defining the scope of work, linking it to complete drawings, a clear Bill of Quantities (BOQ), and a realistic analysis of cost per square meter based on location and specifications. The most critical factor that follows is commitment. Changes during execution are the greatest source of waste, as they disrupt schedules, cause rework, and require modifications to already-installed materials or systems.
Budget control also depends heavily on decision consistency. Selecting finishes in stages or altering plans during construction opens doors to costs that quickly become unmanageable. Projects that adhere to a clear design and pre-approved materials are the ones that maintain budget stability without financial surprises.
Effective planning is not just about reducing costs—it enhances execution quality and project stability. The more realistic and well-aligned the planning is with on-site conditions, the smoother and faster the execution becomes, the higher the quality achieved, and the clearer the budget remains. Ultimately, this level of discipline and efficiency ensures a project that delivers long-term value and sustained operational stability.
Amvic’s SilveRbord
The partnership is underscored by PCL and STACK’s commitment to innovation in the construction industry. After a rigorous evaluation of the market and multiple competitor software solutions, PCL chose STACK based on the platform’s data availability, cloud collaboration, data security, and integration capabilities.
To integrate the entire building lifecycle into a seamless platform to redefine how the world builds. Vel altera malorum ei. Eam at erat dicat vocent, vel et magna vitae principes, et sea dicit eripuit.
Barbra Streisand
By leveraging STACK’s open API, PCL is able to seamlessly integrate their existing workflow to produce better estimating data. Through the cloud-based platform, PCL will have unparalleled flexibility and accessible data, increasing the precision of estimates, minimizing manual processes.
The Advantages of Panalized Systems
A key decision criterion for PCL was based on the fact that STACK is built on a modern cloud technology platform which enables improved collaboration during the quantity takeoff process.
PCL is a powerhouse, consistently in Engineering News-Record’s Top 15 List and boasting a range of projects from San Diego Airport’s International Arrivals Terminal to Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles-based BMO stadium. The partnership between PCL and STACK marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for two of the most innovative companies in construction.
