---
tags:
  - estimating/philosophy
---
# Assembly Philosophy

also "Modularization"

In construction estimating software, 
[[assemblies]] are groups of material items
representing a specific scope of work.

Assembly _philosophy_ is essentially minimizing the number of necessary counts and measurements.
More generally, it is minimizing the effort required for measurement.

## Abstract Assemblies

> [!info] Abstractions
> An abstraction is a model that intentionally ignores details
> that are irrelevant to problem it is used to solve

As useful a concept as assemblies are,
the same concept can be applied as a test of potential efficiency gains
in areas other than material takeoff.

Assembly philosophy as applied to coordination
is minimizing redundant memorization among participants.

* In an ideal work breakdown, every estimator would be 100% ignorant of the requirements of others' scopes,
  thus allowing them to understand their own as well as possible given other constraints.
* In practice there is some overlap where scopes meet

* Eliminate redundant measurements
* Minimize redundant responsibility