40-Year life cycle costs

The above data is from an ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers) study of commercial buildings. The point being made by that organization is that engineering systems are a key component of the total life cycle of a building.

One can readily see from the chart that total Architecture and Engineering fees represent one percent or less of life cycle costs. Yet – Architecture and Engineering success will leverage the success of initial construction costs, operations and maintenance and alterations. Where can one cost effectively best leverage their facility dollars? Which category might one where the return on investment is greatest?