Value engineering (VE) is an organized/systematic approach directed at analyzing the function of systems, equipment facilities, services, and supplies for the purpose of achieving their essential functions at the lowest life-cycle cost consistent with required performance, reliability, quality, and safety. The implementation of the VE process on a problem typically increases performance, reliability, quality, safety, durability, effectiveness, or other desirable characteristics. Tom Reid, a director with Navigant, coauthors an article on value engineering in the National Contract Management Association (NCMA) Contract Management magazine (October 2011).