A general contractor is hired to build the project and is responsible for means, methods, and subcontractor coordination. An owner's representative works exclusively on behalf of the property owner or developer, independent of the contractor, to protect the owner's budget, schedule, and quality interests throughout design and construction.

Value engineering is a structured review of a project's design, materials, and equipment to identify alternatives that preserve required quality and function while reducing cost. It's typically performed during design or early construction, before changes become expensive to make.

Meridian Construction Advisory provides owner-side and attorney-side consulting on construction claims, contract management, dispute resolution board service, owner's project representation, project support, and value engineering. The firm works with owners, contractors, and the attorneys representing them on projects ranging from commercial buildings to major infrastructure.

Meridian Construction Advisory is based in Indianapolis, Indiana, but Douglas Oppman's engagement history spans projects across the United States and internationally, including infrastructure, energy, transportation, and institutional work. Meridian is available for engagements regardless of project location.

Ideally before a dispute escalates. Early involvement, as soon as a potential claim, delay, or scope disagreement is identified, allows for better documentation and more options for resolution. Meridian is also available after a claim has already been filed or a dispute is already in progress.

Meridian manages construction contracts on the client's behalf, including negotiating terms, evaluating and defending against proposed changes, or pursuing changes that are legitimately due, grounded in a precise understanding of the contract's terms, conditions, and scope.