CPE CPE Project Scheduling & Time Management 2

Question 1

How does 'fast-tracking' affect project cost estimates?

Accepted Answer

Overlaps design and construction phases, potentially increasing cost through rework and coordination

Answer

Fast-tracking compresses schedule by overlapping phases but increases coordination complexity and rework risk, which estimators must account for with higher contingency.

Question 2

Equipment rental cost for a crane is $2,500/week. The activity requiring the crane is on the critical path and takes 6 weeks. If the activity is delayed 2 weeks due to late drawings, what is the additional crane cost?

Accepted Answer

$5,000

Answer

Two weeks of delay × $2,500/week = $5,000 in additional crane rental cost directly attributable to the late drawing delay.

Question 3

Which scheduling technique is best suited for repetitive construction such as high-rise floors or highway paving?

Accepted Answer

Line of Balance (LOB) / Linear Scheduling

Answer

Line of Balance (also called Linear Scheduling) shows the flow of repetitive work crews through identical units over time, optimizing crew utilization and minimizing idle time.

Question 4

A project is scheduled to complete in 12 months, but the owner compresses the schedule to 10 months. Which cost element most likely increases?

Accepted Answer

Labor cost due to overtime and crew augmentation

Answer

Compressing schedule typically requires overtime premiums, additional crew sizes, or shift work — all of which increase labor cost substantially.

Question 5

What is a 'look-ahead schedule' used for in construction cost management?

Accepted Answer

A 3–6 week detailed schedule used to coordinate upcoming work, procurement, and resource needs

Answer

Look-ahead schedules focus on the near-term horizon to ensure materials, subcontractors, and equipment are procured and on-site when needed, preventing costly delays.

(CPE) Certified Professional Estimator Practice Test

(CPE) Certified Professional Estimator Practice Test

CPE CPE Project Scheduling & Time Management 2