Virtual Lunch-and-Learn Series: Function Analysis

Join us for a two-week virtual Lunch-and-Learn series on Function Analysis and related value-improvement techniques. Three sessions will be offered each week, from September 8 through September 18, 2026.

What Is Function Analysis?

Function Analysis is a systematic approach used in value engineering and value management to identify and evaluate what a project, product, system, or process must accomplish. It defines each function using a concise active verb–measurable noun format and examines the relationship among required functions, performance, cost, and available resources.

Function Analysis helps project teams:

  • Clarify essential project requirements and objectives.

  • Distinguish basic functions from supporting or unnecessary functions.

  • Improve communication and alignment among stakeholders.

  • Identify unnecessary costs and areas of poor value.

  • Encourage creative thinking and the development of alternatives.

  • Improve performance, efficiency, constructability, and life-cycle value.

  • Support objective and transparent decision-making.

Session Schedule

Session 1 — Fundamentals of Function Analysis
September 9, 2026 from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. ET
An introduction to Function Analysis, its purpose, and its role in Value Engineering and Value Management.

Session 2 — Identifying and Defining Functions
September 10, 2026 from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. ET
Techniques for identifying project, product, and process functions and expressing them using the active verb–measurable noun format.

Session 3 — Classifying and Prioritizing Functions
September 11, 2026 from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. ET
Methods for distinguishing basic, secondary, required, and unwanted functions and determining their relative importance.

Session 4 — Function–Cost and Function–Worth Analysis
September 14, 2026 from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. ET
Approaches for allocating costs to functions, estimating function worth, and identifying areas with the greatest potential for value improvement.

Session 5 — Introduction to FAST Diagramming
September 16, 2026 from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. ET
An introduction to the Function Analysis System Technique (FAST), including the “How–Why” logic used to organize functions and understand their relationships.

Session 6 — Applying Function Analysis to Value Improvement
September 18, 2026 from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. ET
A practical session demonstrating how Function Analysis can support creative problem-solving, alternative evaluation, and improvements in project performance and overall value.

Instructor and Registration

The sessions will be taught by Maryam Mirhadi, Ph.D., VMA, PMP, and conducted virtually through Zoom. Participants may attend individual sessions.

To register, please email info@AdroitProjectConsultants.com no later than the day before each session to ensure that the Zoom link can be sent to you in a timely manner.

Adroit Expands Value Engineering Training Offerings

Adroit Consultants Expands Value Engineering Training Offerings

Adroit Consultants, LLC is pleased to announce the expansion of its Value Engineering (VE) and Value Methodology (VM) training programs, providing professionals with practical, instructor-led training designed to strengthen their ability to apply Value Methodology tools and techniques to real-world projects.

Adroit offers specialized Function Analysis Training, Facilitation Training, and the SAVE International VMF1B VM Study Performance Course.

Function Analysis Training

Adroit offers synchronous, instructor-led Function Analysis Training focused on one of the most important elements of the Value Methodology. Function Analysis provides a structured approach for understanding what a project, system, product, or process must accomplish before alternatives are developed. By focusing on required functions rather than existing solutions, participants learn how to identify opportunities to improve value, performance, cost-effectiveness, and outcomes.

The Function Analysis Training is an 8-hour, synchronous, instructor-led course delivered in a single day. The course combines focused instruction with practical exercises, case studies, examples, and applications drawn from real-world projects to help participants develop a practical understanding of Function Analysis and its role within the Value Methodology. The training covers the following four modules:

  • Module 1 – Function Analysis Fundamentals
    • Role of Function Analysis within the SAVE Value Methodology Job Plan
    • Defining functions using the active verb–measurable noun approach
    • Identifying basic, secondary, required, and supporting functions
    • Applying the Miles Function Thesaurus
    • Understanding function, cost, performance, and value
  • Module 2 – FAST Diagramming
    • Understanding function relationships, hierarchy, and logic
    • Developing and interpreting FAST diagrams
    • Applying “How?” and “Why?” logic
    • Identifying critical, supporting, and independent functions
    • Reviewing examples and common FAST diagramming issues
  • Module 3 – Function Analysis for Value Improvement
    • Applying Function Analysis within the Value Methodology process
    • Supporting creativity and alternative development
    • Identifying value-improvement opportunities
    • Reviewing case studies and examples from real projects
  • Module 4 – Practical Application Workshop
    • Developing function statements and FAST diagrams
    • Applying the Miles Function Thesaurus in exercises
    • Working through practical and real-project examples
    • Reviewing results, lessons learned, and good practices

The single-day format is designed to provide participants with both the fundamental concepts and the hands-on experience needed to apply Function Analysis techniques effectively in real Value Engineering studies and project environments. The course is designed for professionals involved in Value Engineering, design, construction, engineering, project management, cost management, risk management, project controls, and related disciplines, as well as individuals seeking to strengthen their practical understanding of Function Analysis and FAST diagramming.

SAVE International VMF1B VM Study Performance Course

VMF1B is an instructor-led, practical training course that provides participants with the opportunity to apply the workshop phases of the Value Methodology Job Plan to a specific study subject or project. The course is delivered by a SAVE International-approved VMF1B instructor. Rather than focusing only on theory, the course emphasizes hands-on application through structured exercises, case studies, teamwork, and development of Value Methodology recommendations.

Participants gain practical experience in areas including:

  • Applying the Value Methodology Job Plan
  • Function Analysis and FAST diagramming
  • Generating creative alternatives
  • Evaluating and screening ideas
  • Developing value alternatives and recommendations
  • Analyzing cost, performance, and value
  • Developing and presenting value proposals
  • Working collaboratively as part of a Value Study team
  • Applying Value Methodology techniques to realistic project situations

The VMF1B course is a minimum of 24 hours and may be offered virtually or in person.

Prerequisite: Individuals must successfully complete the VMF1A Seminar before attending a VMF1B course.

Following completion of the course and submission of participant information, SAVE International provides participants with a VMF1B Certificate of Completion, along with information regarding registration for the Value Methodology Associate (VMA) examination.

Practical Value Methodology Training

Adroit’s training programs are designed to bridge the gap between Value Methodology theory and its practical application. Participants work through real-world concepts, exercises, and project examples that help develop the skills needed to effectively participate in and support Value Engineering studies.

Whether you are seeking to strengthen your Function Analysis and FAST diagramming skills, expand your Value Engineering capabilities, support your professional development, or pursue SAVE International certification, Adroit’s training programs provide a practical and structured learning experience.

Facilitation Training

Adroit offers synchronous, instructor-led Facilitation Training focused on developing the skills needed to effectively lead and support collaborative Value Methodology workshops, meetings, and team-based decision-making processes. Effective facilitation helps teams remain focused, encourages meaningful participation, manages differing viewpoints, and supports productive discussions that lead to well-developed and actionable outcomes.

The Facilitation Training is an 8-hour, synchronous, instructor-led course delivered in a single day. The course combines focused instruction with practical exercises, case studies, role-playing, and examples drawn from real-world project environments. The training covers the following four modules:

  • Module 1 – Facilitation Fundamentals
    • Role and responsibilities of an effective facilitator
    • Facilitator versus participant and subject-matter expert roles
    • Establishing objectives, expectations, and ground rules
    • Creating an inclusive and productive workshop environment
    • Understanding team dynamics and participant behaviors
  • Module 2 – Communication and Engagement Techniques
    • Using effective questioning, active listening, and paraphrasing
    • Encouraging balanced participation and engagement
    • Managing dominant, quiet, or disengaged participants
    • Building consensus and maintaining team focus
    • Using verbal and non-verbal communication effectively
  • Module 3 – Managing Group Dynamics and Challenges
    • Managing disagreement, conflict, and competing viewpoints
    • Keeping discussions focused, productive, and on schedule
    • Addressing difficult behaviors and challenging situations
    • Facilitating decision-making and consensus development
    • Applying facilitation techniques during Value Methodology workshops
  • Module 4 – Practical Facilitation Workshop
    • Facilitating simulated workshop and meeting scenarios
    • Practicing questioning, engagement, and conflict-management techniques
    • Working through case studies and real-project examples
    • Receiving feedback on facilitation approaches and techniques
    • Reviewing lessons learned, common challenges, and good practices

Contact us at info@AdroitProjectConsultants.com for upcoming course dates, registration information, training opportunities, group enrollment, and customized organizational training.

Adroit’s Principal Consultants, Primary Authors of AACE Recommended Practice 129R-23, Linear Scheduling Method (LSM)

The Association for the Advancement of the Cost Engineering (AACE International) has recently released Recommended Practice 129R-23, Linear Scheduling Method (LSM). Dr. Amin Terouhid, PE, PMP and Dr. Mirhadi, PMP, Adroit’s principal consultants, are the two primary authors of this recommended practice. This recommended Practice has been peer reviewed and approved by AACE’s planning and scheduling subcommittee members and has now been released for public review.

The AACE International Recommended Practices (RPs) contain valuable reference information and serve as references for project management, cost engineering, and construction claims professionals around the globe. These documents are regularly and carefully updated, go through multiple peer reviews and revisions before publication, and are routinely reviewed by numerous relevant practitioners. The AACE International Recommended Practices (RPs) have been subject to a rigorous peer review process and are intended to be the main technical foundation of AACE’s educational, and certification products and services.

Adroit’s consultants have previously authored other recommended practices too. They received the AACE 2018 Technical Excellence Award because of their role in authoring some of the recommended practices published by AACE international (including Recommended Practice 91R-16 Schedule Development, Recommended Practice 89R-16 Management Summary Schedule, and Recommended Practice 92R-17 Analyzing Near-Critical Paths).

Project planning and scheduling professionals use a variety of project scheduling methods depending on the type, size, and nature of projects. The linear scheduling method (LSM) is typically used on projects wherein the majority of the scope is made up of highly repetitive work elements along a horizontal or vertical alignment. Examples of these projects include pipeline, tunnel, airport runway, highway, transmission line, road resurfacing, railroad, or high-rise construction projects. An LSM schedule (also known as a linear schedule or march chart) is the graphical output of the LSM. Linear schedules use velocity diagrams, which will be described below, to represent each activity and the progress rate to be achieved (or alternatively, the progress actually achieved) over time. The schedule format typically provides planned and/or actual production rates on a time-scaled, linear format.

 

This recommended practice (RP) is intended to serve as a guideline, not a standard. As a recommended practice of AACE International, the main objectives of this recommended practice (RP) are to increase LSM usage and enhance project management practices by:

  • Providing an overview of the LSM.
  • Defining characteristics and applications of the LSM.
  • Delineating the steps and main considerations in developing, updating, and managing linear schedules.
  • Highlighting main considerations in interpreting linear schedules

For more information about this recommended practice see:

https://communities.aacei.org/discussion/public-review-draft-129r-23-linear-scheduling-method-lsm-2#bm40b53330-1444-4135-8048-192418b6bd0c

To find out about the strategies for the effective use of project schedules, including the use of Linear Scheduling Method (LSM), please feel free to contact us.

References:

http://web.aacei.org/resources/publications/recommended-practices

Adroit’s Principal Consultant Earns Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) Credential

April 11, 2022 — The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), the world’s largest anti-fraud organization and leading provider of anti-fraud training and education, awarded Amin Terouhid, Ph.D., PE, of Upper Saddle River, NJ, the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) credential. To become a CFE, Amin Terouhid has met a stringent set of criteria and passed a rigorous exam administered by the ACFE.

 

Amin Terouhid has successfully met the ACFE’s character, experience, and education requirements for the CFE credential, and has demonstrated knowledge in four areas critical to the fight against fraud: Fraudulent Financial Transactions, Fraud Prevention and Deterrence, Legal Elements of Fraud and Fraud Investigation. Amin Terouhid joins the ranks of business and government professionals worldwide who have also earned the CFE certification.

 

CFEs have the ability to: examine data and records to detect and trace fraudulent transactions; interview suspects to obtain information and confessions; write investigation reports; advise clients as to their findings; testify at trial; understand the law as it relates to fraud and fraud investigations; and identify the underlying factors that motivate individuals to commit fraud. CFEs on six continents have investigated millions of suspected cases of civil and criminal fraud. Globally preferred by clients, the CFE credential denotes proven expertise in fraud prevention, detection, deterrence and investigation.

 

About the ACFE

The ACFE is the world’s largest anti-fraud organization and premier provider of anti-fraud training and education. Together with nearly 90,000 members, the ACFE is reducing business fraud worldwide and inspiring public confidence in the integrity and objectivity within the profession. For more information about the ACFE visit ACFE.com.

Adroit to Present a CMAA Webinar on March 10, 2022

Please join Adroit’s Amin Terouhid, Ph.D., PE for the following CMAA webinar:

 

Topic: Construction Fraud, Measures for Prevention and Considerations for Investigation 

Abstract: This presentation will define areas in construction that are more susceptible to fraud and describe some of the key measures that can be used to prevent fraud in construction projects. The presentation will also outline some of the red flags that construction management practitioners can watch out for, and will discuss some of the main considerations necessary to investigate construction fraud cases.

 

Webinar Date: March 10, 2022 @ 2-3 pm EDT

Sponsored by: Construction Management Association of America (CMAA)

Find out more at:

https://www.cmaanet.org/course/construction-fraud-measures-prevention-and-considerations-investigation

 

Adroit is among the CMAA invited speakers for CMAA Focus21!

We are pleased to announce that Adroit’s Amin Terouhid, Ph.D., PMP is among the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) invited speakers for CMAA Focus21!

CMAA Focus21 is a suite of four, virtual events held on April 12 – 15, 2021, that each focus on one of the four stages or roles within the profession:

  • Students
  • early-career professionals
  • professional CMs and CCMs leading teams, projects, or programs; and
  • senior executive leaders.

Dr. Terouhid will present the following session on the loss of productivity quantification methods on April 14, 2021:

Title: Loss of Productivity (LOP) Damage Quantification – A review of Project-Specific

Abstract: In the tiered approach to LOP damage quantification methods of claim analysis, cost-based methods for assessing LOP damage quantification do not typically establish the presence of a causal relationship between causes and lost productivity. However, project-specific methods rely the most on the cause-and-effect analysis and use contemporaneous, project-specific track records of productivity. As such, project-specific methods are considered the most preferred methods. This presentation reviews the project-specific LOP damage quantification methods and discusses the key considerations necessary to use them.


Here is the link to the program.

Find out more: https://www.cmaanet.org/conferences/cmaa-focus21/f21-critical-path-professionals/f21-critical-path-professionals-program

Adroit to Present a CMAA Webinar on February 4, 2021

Please join Adroit’s Amin Terouhid, Ph.D., PMP for the following CMAA webinar:


Topic: The Value Engineering (VE) Process and Its Uses in Various Project Phases

Abstract: This webinar will describe the value methodology, explain how this methodology can be used in various development phases of a construction project, and identify the benefits of value engineering and value analysis studies.


Webinar Date: February 4, 2021 @ 2-3 pm EDT

Sponsored by: Construction Management Association of America (CMAA)

Find out more at:

https://www.cmaanet.org/course/value-engineering-ve-process-and-its-uses-various-project-phases


Register now!

Adroit to Present a CMAA Webinar on October 8, 2020

Please join Adroit’s Amin Terouhid, Ph.D., PE for the following CMAA webinar:

Topic: Typical Deficiencies of Construction Project Schedules: Practices to Avoid

Abstract: This webinar will discuss some of the typical deficiencies of construction project schedules and identifies some of the main considerations necessary to review schedules. The process of reviewing project schedules will also be discussed, and suggestions will be made for preparing complete and reasonable project schedules.

 

Webinar Date: October 8, 2020 @ 2-3 pm EDT

Sponsored by: Construction Management Association of America (CMAA)

Find out more at:

https://www.cmaanet.org/course/typical-deficiencies-construction-project-schedules-practices-avoid

Register now!

Adroit’s Amin Terouhid, Ph.D. to be a Panelist on AACE’s webinar on the Impacts of COVID-19

The rise of COVID-19 is having an unprecedented impact on economies and industries around the world. While the ramifications of a global pandemic are still unknown, organizations are responding quickly to prioritize the safety of their employees to ensure business continuity.

The Engineering & Construction industry is no exception, with companies still attempting to understand and mitigate the potential impacts to ongoing and future projects.

Join the AACE Metro New York Section on April 21st, 2020 for a free webinar to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on private infrastructure investments and the implementation of project and program risk mitigation methodologies. Adroit’s Amin Terouhid, Ph.D. will be a panelist and will share his views on the recommended measures to mitigate and quantify COVID19’s delay impacts.  Here is more information about the event:

Online Webinar
Tuesday, April 21, 2020
12:00pm – 1:00pm

To Register, please use this link.

 

Adroit’s Amin Terouhid, Ph.D., PE publishes at the newest edition of Under Construction

Adroit’s Dr. Amin Terouhid, PhD, PE recently authored the Concurrent Delays: Definitional and Procedural Considerations article on Under Construction, published by the ABA Forum on Construction Law. This article focuses on some of the key considerations in drafting contract provisions, with a focus on definitional and procedural considerations.

Under Construction offers practical information on the latest developments in the practice of construction law, and provides practical constructionlaw articles authored by leading construction attorneys and consultants. To read the article, please visit this link.

For more information about concurrent delays, please contact Dr. Terouhid or visit Under Construction.

Adroit Consultants, LLC

255 Laird Ave, Ste. 14

Cliffside Park, NJ 07010

O: 201.366.3522