We are trying to decide if we want to use 1/8"=1' or 3/32"=1' scale for a project that includes remodel of the existing building with very complicated mechanical systems. As always when decisions need to be made there are proponents of different option. The major driver for the 3/32" scale is cost, claiming that it will have reduced number of drawings, while the proponents of 1/8 scale are bringing up clarity of drawings and impact on construction since the contractors might be using drawings to scale off and do take offs. I want to reach to CAD community and see what are your thoughts and what would you say that it would be added hours to produce a drawing in 1/8" vs 3/32". In my opinion of they are  using master drawings and create plot sheets in 3/32 it should not require much more effort.Thank you.

It won't cost you a thing other than paper.Do the drawing in model space and use annotative scaling for your text, blocks, dimensions, hatches and multileaders.  Then plot from a paper space layout or however many layouts you need.  If you really can't decide on what scale to use then assign both 1/8"=1'-0" and 3/32"=1'-0" scale to all annotative objects.  In your layout assign the appropriate scale to each viewport.
John Connor2014-02-28 22:10:09

John,That is what I have been saying only real cost is associated with creating additional paper space layers and printing cost due to additional drawings. I will tell you that consultants claim that it will cost over $400,000 for additional 100 sheets which IMO is overblown.

Unless the consultants have something to back that claim up I'd say they pulled the number out of their asses.  Excuse my French.
John Connor2014-03-01 18:43:09