Thanks Compositepro!
To clarify, we sometimes perform pre-installation analyses like finite element analysis or physical hydraulic modeling in special equipment applications (e.g., pumps) where there is greater risk exposure of an otherwise routine design due to abnormal various variables like use of uniquely shaped wet well/intakes, variable frequency drives, flexible foundations, especially large HP, high capacities, high dollar value construction, etc. It is not always clear when these analyses need to or should be performed (it is sometimes obvious, but often a gray area). They usually cost money that clients would rather not spend if they do not have to. I have been thinking that surely someone must have come up with an adaptable model to weigh cost of performing such an analysis to the probable likelihood and impacts of not doing such an analysis (among other factors) to assess the return on investment or financial unmitigated risk of not doing so. Ultimately, I am hoping to adapt/develop a few models to help others understand when it is quantitatively in their best interest to pay a few bucks for a special service in order to avoid future agony of not having done so.
Thank you for any insights!