How to Work Effectively with Consulting Engineers: Getting the Best Project at the Right Price

"How to Work Effectively with Consulting Engineers: Getting the Best Project at the Right Price for Your Public Constituents (ASCE Manual No. 45)" is a comprehensive revision of the previous edition of the manual. "Manual 45" addresses the procurement of engineering services for a quality project. This guide outlines the functions of the consulting engineer in serving a client, the types of services usually offered, the various methods of determining compensation for engineering services, and the general ranges of remuneration that competent consulting engineers receive for their services. A recommended procedure for interviewing and selecting a consulting engineer and guidance on contracts for engineering services is also provided. The manual is designed to serve the best interests of the client and the consulting engineer and to foster better understanding between them. The data presented for engineering charges, percentage fees, factors on payrolls, etc., are provided as general guides to be used or not used, at the sole discretion of each user, to assist in evaluating compensation negotiated between clients and consulting engineers.
The data is based on the experience of many consulting engineers as obtained in a recent national survey. The contents include: The Practice of Civil Engineering; Classification of Engineering Services; Selecting the Engineer; Methods of Charging for Engineering Services; Total Project Costs; and Contracts for Engineering Services. The appendices include EJCDC documents and other qualification forms.