Selecting a civil engineering firm is a decision that should not be taken lightly. Considering most projects range in the hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars, it’s a commitment that can impact you and your business for years to come. Whether you’re looking to break ground on a small residential project or have dreams of erecting a mixed-use shopping center, one constant remains the same: a civil engineering team that you can trust.

Yes, civil engineering firms are a dime a dozen, but none of them are as committed, experienced or capable as us. Before you make any hasty decisions, it’s important to consider the following.

What kind of technology do they use?

A civil engineering firm is only as powerful as its technology. Thanks to breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, automation and virtual reality, utilizing tools isn’t just possible, it’s necessary in order to compete.

At McNeil Engineering, we regularly use laser scanning technology, 3D modeling software and building information modeling to provide our clients with comprehensive overviews of each and every phase of a project. Not only do these technologies help to improve efficiency and cut costs, they can also catch design flaws before construction crews encounter them.

If the team you partner with is still using 90s or early 00s era software, you run the risk of ballooning costs, not to mention design headaches as well as potential safety problems. The message is simple: technology matters.

What is their experience level?

Civil engineering is an art form that requires years of blood, sweat and hard work to master. You might be able to get a great deal hiring someone who’s just graduated with an architecture degree, but what you will lose in terms of quality is glaringly obvious.

An engineering partner needs to be able to wear multiple hats. In addition to acquiring the necessary permits, they also need to have a broad knowledge of topics like:

• Road design
• Erosion control
• Water retention systems
• Earthwork analysis
• Sewage and plumbing design
• UDOT access
• Subdivision design
• And more!

Before starting work on a new project, make a list of all your project requirements. Once you’re finished doing that, create a list of questions that you can ask a potential partner. A little research can help you determine whether a candidate has enough experience or not.

What are they capable of?

What exactly are you trying to do? If you have been tasked with expanding a highway or building a bridge, you’ll want to partner with a civil engineering firm who has performed this kind of work in the past. On the other hand, if you plan on building in California, and want to ensure your structure is fortified with the latest seismic technology, you’ll want a team who is capable of this kind of work.

At McNeil Engineering, we’re capable of bridges, seismic protection, malls, movie theaters, restaurants and more. Our only limitation is your imagination.

Do they have references?

When you hire a new employee, you ask them for references, right? The same should be required for any potential civil engineering partner. A company who is worth their merit will be able to provide a list of happy customers that they have worked with in the past. A simple Google or Yelp search can also provide key insights and information about whether or not a business is trustworthy or reputable. It only takes a few minutes, but it can alert you to red flags.

Does your civil engineering project have special requirements?

Some engineering firms specialize in only one or two things. At Mcneil Engineering, we do it all. That’s why we’ve established ourselves as one of the most sought-after civil and structural engineering firms in the Western United States. No matter your specifications or needs, we’ll do everything we can to exceed your expectations.

If you would like to learn more about what we’re capable of, we invite you to visit our website.