Government Conceptual Estimating for Contracting and Management.

This report explains the use of the Aerospace Price Book and KSC Cost Index for Government Conceptual Cost Estimates for Kennedy Space Center\u27s launch facilities and ground support equipment. The Aerospace Price Book has been developed since 1974 with over three volumes of cost data based on Government estimates totaling over $500 million. The KSC Cost Index has also been developed since January 1974 with over 140 issues. The Price Book contains over 200 commonly used conceptual elements nnd almost 100 systems summaries of such projects as launch pads, processing facilities, air locks, and steel/shielded buildings;. Some of the over 200 commonly used elements and systems are tower steel for service structures, steel/aluminum access platforms, mating devices, Payload Changeout Room (PCR) special doors, pneumatic remotfi control panels, PCR bridge hinged column bearing assembly, Halon systems, stainless steel pipe runs, uninterruptible power systems, Orbiter access platforms, and fiber optic cable system. One of the best methods for making ROMs (rough order of magnitude) conceptual estimates is to find similar items, buildings, systems, elements, and assemblies already designed, built, and costed and to adjust that cost for time, location, and current design requirements. With the aid of these unit bid prices, KSC conceptual budget estimates are more accurate and timely. The prices also serve as a rule-of-thumb and cross-check feedback for detail evaluating designed priced-out project cost estimates. A simple example* using the. Cost Index and Price Book to make three different types of conceptual estimates for a $10 million project will be shown along with a case study of a conceptually designed $5 million project