AASHTO QIPE

Description / Abstract: Executive Summary: There is no question that quality is both desirable and necessary in preconstruction engineering. Because of the nature of the preconstruction products, processes, and services, it is not easy to define, develop, or measure the quality of some of those elements. Each product is unique-one of a kind-never produced before and potentially never to be produced again in exactly the same manner. Each preconstruction product may involve different standards, needs, processes, and procedures. There are many phases in preconstruction engineering, such as right-of-way, utilities, geometric design, drainage design, structures, etc. Each one is most likely the responsibility of a different person or group of persons, team, or squad, within the state transportation agency or of different consultants. Therefore, it is easy to see that to assure quality in the end products of the preconstruction engineering process (i.e., plans ready for bids), each and every one of the various steps, products, or processes along the way must entail quality.