introduction
This cost-estimating and cost-management criteria document supports building construction
programs within the Public Buildings Service (PBS) of the U.S. General Services Administration
(GSA). This document presents the technical and administrative requirements for routine cost-
estimating and cost-management tasks involved in a construction project's planning and execution
stages, and defines cost-estimating practices and standards for professional services. This
document replaces the previously issued GSA Handbook P 3440.5 and all associated versions.
The instructions and criteria in this document are applicable to programming, design, construction-
management, and other professional-services contracts that involve cost-estimating and
cost-management tasks. The criteria for practices and documentation requirements apply to all
professional services activities, whether provided through contract or by in-house GSA/PBS staff.
The cost-estimating tasks addressed in this document must establish accurate project costs, ensure
that they are based on programming requirements, keep costs within authorized limits, and collect
GSA cost data to refine business practices and future cost estimates.
Since project delivery methods affect how, and to some degree when, cost-management practices
are applied, this document explains the basic requirements associated with each delivery method.
introduction
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