North America’s leading construction cost database

HistoryRobert Snow Means was a Civil Engineer who kept meticulous notes of construction costs in a series of leather-bound books. In the early 1940s, peers took notice of the thorough tracking and offered to buy his “cost books.”

The first books were created by hand at Robert’s kitchen table with help from his wife. Each book detailed material, equipment and labor costs. Robert quickly outgrew this home operation and started the R.S. Means Company.

RSMeans Data Online was launched

Gordian purchased RSMeans

Gordian developed RSMeans data

Predictive Analytics

Gordian created RSMeans data API

TodayRSMeans data has progressed from handwritten cost books to the most comprehensive construction cost database in North America. More than 22,000 hours are invested in cost research each year. Our Cost Engineers apply their skill and expertise to validate each line item and work closely with Data Scientists to develop the formulas and algorithms to ensure accuracy, completeness and usability.

The FutureRSMeans data is evolving every day. As the strength of the database grows, the analysis becomes more insightful. Leveraging advanced algorithms, the construction of tomorrow will be powered by RSMeans data from Gordian.

Actively monitored data points fueling our database:

55,000+Materials

638 Equipment

Types

970+ Locations

35Trades

How the Database is BuiltConstruction costs are comprised of material, labor and/or equipment prices and can be referenced at the unit, assembly or square foot level of detail.

UnitEx: Brick

AssemblyEx: Brick Wall

SqFt ModelEx: Brick Building

Material Labor Equipment Costs

How the Database is Used

PlanningFrom capital planning to small-scale budgeting, RSMeans data can be utilized for creating or operating within a budget and making plans based on local, historical or future factors.

EstimatingBe it the price of a single brick to the cost of an entire building, estimates through RSMeans data provide the exact level of detail to satisfy your needs.

ValidatingRSMeans data can be referenced as a benchmark and accredited source for endorsed rates, prices and calculations.

MaintainingRSMeans data provides the continued cost and upkeep throughout the facility’s or infrastructure’s entire lifecycle.

AboutGordian is the world’s leading provider of facility and construction cost data, software and services for all phases of the building lifecycle. A pioneer of Job Order Contracting (JOC), Gordian’s solutions also include our proprietary RSMeans data and Sightlines facility benchmarking and analysis. From planning to design, procurement, construction and operations, Gordian’s solutions help clients maximize efficiency, optimize cost savings and increase building quality.

For more information, visit rsmeans.com or gordian.com

© 2018 The Gordian Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.