What type of changes are likely to increase the total project costs?

Design changes that require adjustments are likely to increase the total project costs because they often necessitate rework, additional materials, and more labor, which all contribute to higher expenses. When a project’s design is altered, it can impact various elements, including schedules, resource allocation, and logistics.

For example, if a design change involves a different type of material or construction method, costs associated with procuring that new material or training workers to implement the new technique will increase. Furthermore, design changes can lead to delays in the construction timeline, which can result in additional overhead costs and possibly penalties if deadlines are not met.

Other options, while they can affect project dynamics, do not as directly lead to cost increases. Changes in labor laws may raise costs, but this is often an indirect effect rather than a direct correlation to project-specific expenditures. Seasonal weather changes can affect construction schedules and productivity but don't inherently increase project costs unless they result in delays that require additional financial outlay. Similarly, company policy alterations may change operational procedures or workflows but could just as easily lead to cost savings or adjustments that do not necessarily increase total project costs.