Wednesday, September 30, 2009

AES is now licensed in Texas!!

Altitude Engineering & Surveying now holds Professional Engineering licensure (PE) in the state of TEXAS!! That now makes it: Colorado (PE & PLS), New Mexico (PE), Arizona (PE), Florida (PE), and now Texas (PE). More info coming as we continue to add to the growing list of states! stay tuned

Monday, September 21, 2009

The right size

Choosing and hiring a consultant is something that is not only reserved for developers and builders. We (meaning architects, engineers, surveyors, etc) are often in a position where we need to hire or recommend (in confidence) a consultant to complete a project team. What we look for when hiring or recommending a colleague is someone that can handle the required work load, will be cost effective, and brings additional experience and insights to the team. Often times, this comes in the way of a smaller sized firm. Many smaller sized firms are set up with more Principal contact, better pricing, and usually equal to or often better practical experience than with a larger firm..... because with a smaller sized firm there tends to be a much more "hands -on" approach.

All that being said, the most important thing is to surround your project team with people that you like to work with and can connect with. As with sports, you can have a roster/team of all-stars, but if the chemistry is missing, the project team will only be as successful as the weakest link.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Success with review agencies

If every review agency/governing jurisdiction operated the same, life might be a bit less complicated for consultants and clients alike. Well....unfortunately... they're not. The key is knowing who you are dealing with and what their expectations are. Some agencies review EVERY small detail, while others only review the major design portions of the project. An upfront meeting with the assigned reviewer often provides some insight into what to expect. Also, from the consultants end, consistent and diligent communication throughout the project (with the review agency and with your client) goes a long way to minimizing unnecessary issues and associated costs. From the clients end, expect that the project scope will sometimes vary and additional project requirements are often added to a project once the review agency gets entrenched in the review process. Bottom line--expect the unexpected and be flexible.

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Starting your project.....

It is often intimidating for prospective clients to wrap their arms around the simple question..."what is it going to cost and how much time is it going to take before I have the necessary permits to begin construction?"

We offer FREE up-front consultation and site visits. We will meet with a client, visit the site, complete research with the governing jurisdiction, and put together a project outline and cost estimate FREE of charge. A well informed consultant and an educated client lead to successful projects.

Contact us today to set up a meeting: info@altitudeeng.com or 720.413.9691