Technology Projects Phase one
The Site Survey and Consultation Phase explained
Site surveys, consultation and Design is the Initial Phase of all technology projects.
The Importance of The Site Survey in Infrastructure Design
Design Consideration
The first step in Consultation and design, is to review the building plans and the RFQ (Request for Quotation) from the customer, consultant or building contractor. But the next step is quite often the most important which is conduct a site walk through or survey depending upon the nature of the project. This is the first opportunity for the project team to get a look at the extent of the project.
Site Survey, Consultation, Design and Project Management Phase
This Phase may be divided into several phases. These phases are:
1. Gathering information and Budgets
2. Performing the survey and consultation
3. Evaluating the findings
4. Design
5. Internal Review of Proposal
6. Submit Proposal
7. Final Proposal Review, SOW and Project Schedule
The Proposal shall include a full and complete set of all documentation to begin the Project. The documents should contain the project drawings and specifications, a set of installation drawings, a list of major materials, the scope of work (SOW) for the installation, an overall project schedule and terms of agreement. A deposit is required to start. The determination of the deposit is dependent upon the
Initial RFQ description of the Project and Survey hours needed. Upon completing the Proposal, the remaining Initial Phase balance will be due. This phase is generally 25% percent of the Project Total.
A Site Survey may cost $175 per Hour with a two-hour minimum on small projects
This phase is generally 15% percent of the Project Total. The Site Survey rate will be deducted from the Total Percentage cost after the Proposal is completed.
Key elements of the facility
Drawings for new infrastructure design and construction are generally an accurate representation of the facility. However, changes may occur, so it is important to verify the location of key elements of the system including:
Equipment rooms Telecommunications pathways, Cabling outlets, Electrical equipment and conduit, AC equipment and ducting, Grounding and bonding, Firewalls
Planning for retrofit sites Your Heading Text Here
For retrofits, the drawings available may not reflect the site “as built” and should be carefully checked for currency and accuracy.
The site survey is an important opportunity to match the information on the blueprints with the real world. So, it should be a thorough evaluation of the job site, not just a walk through. During the site survey, verify and evaluate the key factors in an installation.
Planning for sites that have history
The planning for a retrofit site is, by its nature, more complex and demanding than for new construction. During the retrofit, the existing system must usually remain operational while the new one is installed. In many cases, some or all the existing wire and cable will be re-used.
Step by step of a site survey
Unless the existing documentation is current, a full inventory of the location, type, size, and condition of existing cabling will have to be completed during the site survey phase. At the same time, our engineers will need to record the location, type and condition of grounding, cable conveyances, and other cabling infrastructure. Once the inventory is complete, all or part of the cabling may have to be tested.
During the site survey, we will determine the location of equipment rooms and verify that their size corresponds with what is shown on the infrastructure design drawings. We will also check that conduits, sleeves, slots and support infrastructure are as shown and verify the type of ceiling construction. Make sure the cabinets/frames have sufficient capacity for the required new equipment. Using the survey results, we identify problem areas, such as conduits in the wrong location and the proximity of lifts and elevators. Equipment rooms may also be too small, or in the wrong location, to accommodate the new system. Superlative Systems engineers will also look out for obstructed pathways and poor access to the facilities. If any of these do not meet current code requirements, remedial action may be needed. On completion of the survey, a determination will be made as to how much of the existing design infrastructure may be re-used, and what will be considered abandoned.
With client permission, we will take as many pictures as necessary. Updating the floorplan during the site walk through will require substantial time, so having it in advance will be helpful. We Request drawings early since they normally take time to assemble or to get proper access assigned.
