Real-Life Decision Making
Civil engineering technicians must ensure that a project turns out well
constructed, safe and within budget. They must also make sure the work is
done in compliance with local, state, federal and even international building
codes and environmental laws.
Civil engineer Ramli Halim works all over the world on projects from dams
and transmission lines to airport runway rehabilitation. "Working overseas,
I have to deal with strict technical specifications to ensure long-term and
lasting exposure, as well as the quality of the project," he says.
But according to Halim, in some less-developed countries it can be a challenge
to come by products locally that meet the quality and technical specifications
required.
You are working on a project in one of these countries. You are estimating
the costs for various elements of a building project. Several local building
materials suppliers come to you and offer to contract with you to provide
materials.
You know if you buy from them, you will be helping the local economy. Because
the materials are less expensive, you will bring the project in under budget.
But you are uncertain of the quality and consistency of the products.
What do you recommend the project team do?