The aim of the course is to provide the theoretical and operational principles of project appraisal and evaluation. Within this area of interest, students will acquire competencies related to the life cycle cost approach (i.e.  planning, design, construction,  operation, maintenance and disposal costs) and on the techniques and models for project valuation, in order to strengthen the ability of the students to control the different design stages.

More specifically, the course addresses the following topics: life-cycle costing and financial analysis of building projects; organizational models; analysis techniques of projects; project control and scheduling; technical and economical contents of design deliverables; bill of quantities and cost analysis; reference database for construction costs; value analysis.

The teaching method is based on theoretical lectures, group discussions and hands-on exercises.

A project work will be developed by students in order to apply different evaluation techniques according to different design stages and instances.

The expected learning outcomes include:

- Understanding advantages and limitations of main project evaluation techniques;

- Understanding the key principles of Cost Analysis;

- Gaining first-hand experience by applying Cost Analysis and Value Analysis to a design studio project.

The exam will be carried out with a written test. It wil be also assessed the  workshop technical report.