ASCE MOP 45

Abstract

<strong>FOREWORD</strong> <br>The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has been concerned with procedures for engaging engineering services since the early 1900s. The fi rst ASCE manual on the subject was published in 1930. The designation <em>Manual No. 45&#8212;A Guide for the Engagement of Engineering Services</em> ("the manual") was adopted in 1964, with revisions issued in 1972, 1975, 1981, 1988, 1996, and 2002. This manual is the 2011 edition. It has been renamed <em>How to Select and Work Effectively with Consulting Engineers: Getting the Best Project</em>. <br>This manual is intended to outline the functions of the consulting engineer in serving a project owner or other engineering services client, explain the services usually offered, provide methods of determining compensation for engineering services, and provide historical infor mation on the remuneration received by consulting engineers for their services. A recommended procedure for interviewing and selecting a consulting engineer and guidance on contracts for engineering services are provided. This work is designed to serve the best interests of both the owner and the consulting engineer and to foster better understanding between them. The information offered is intended to apply to civil engineering practice and civil works projects; however, certain aspects of this manual may not be applicable to specialty practice. <br>The ASCE Task Committee for the Update of Manual 45 ("Task Committee") began the update process by surveying users of the 2002 edition of the manual and prospective users. The survey responders evaluated the 2002 edition of the manual and provided suggestions for improvement. The Task Committee evaluated the results of the survey and used the results to prepare this new edition. Survey questionnaires were prepared by the Task Committee and were sent in early 2008 and again in late 2009 to consulting engineering fi rms and major owners whose assistance was requested to provide recent completed project data. Responses were received from more than 360 fi rms and agencies. The Task Committee evaluated the results of the data in preparing this edition. <br>This edition omits the "fee curves" that were included in previous editions. While the previous fee curves were based on historical data collected and were meant to provide a frame of reference, they were sometimes used inappropriately to dictate the percentage fee. In lieu of the curves, the Task Committee has included plots of actual fee data obtained from recent surveys to give a visual sense of fees, but at the same time demonstrate the scatter in values due to the fact that each project is unique. <br>The Task Committee gratefully acknowledges those fi rms, agencies, and individuals that contributed their time and talent to make the revised manual better able to serve the public, clients, owners, and the profession.