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Typically, you will retain the architect first to develop the design and then retain the contractor for the construction of the project. The design process will go through several phases, depending on the complexity of the project. Regarding construction projects, several methods can be used to complete each step of the process. While both approaches have advantages and disadvantages, project managers and stakeholders need to understand how they differ to decide which method to use for their specific project. Subsurface utility mapping is just as if not more important in design build projects. Design builders that understand subsurface conditions can make more competitive bids, streamline the design process, and prevent utility conflicts from causing unnecessary delays.
Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) Pros & Cons
Just as the streamlining of design and bidding in DB can save you money, it can also accelerate your project’s timeline. Instead of taking time to go through the design process and then having to wait as it goes through bidding, both steps can happen simultaneously. Dr. Kenneth S. Sands II is an Assistant Professor in the Construction Management Program at Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers, FL, and an experienced construction management professional.
Shorter Timeline

Every construction project and the circumstances surrounding it is different. Selecting the best delivery method for the project can help reduce overall risk and bring the project in on schedule and on budget. The design-bid-build project delivery method is a more multitiered approach than design-build. First, a design team works with the project owner to prepare the programming, design the project, and draft the contract.
New Law Allows School Districts to Enter Design-Build Contracts - JD Supra
New Law Allows School Districts to Enter Design-Build Contracts.
Posted: Tue, 22 Aug 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
A Clear Distinction Between Teams
If you’re currently investing in a construction project, then you’re probably wrestling with big decisions like “do I go with a design build? Typically, there would be separate compensation provisions for the design and construction. Design-builders vary on how they charge for pre-construction services, including design.
Sometimes, but not always, projects that are simpler, more predictable, and smaller scale will take place under Design-Bid-Build methods. The majority of public sector projects are still built using Design-Bid Build methods, as are many private sector projects. AIA Contract Documents has provided this article for general informational purposes only.
Design-Bid-Build Construction Explained
However, Design-Build can also be cost effective because it involves the general contractor and designer from the beginning and can eliminate design changes further into the projects’ construction. MT Copeland offers video-based online classes that give you a foundation in construction fundamentals with real-world applications, like project delivery methods. Classes include professionally produced videos taught by practicing craftspeople, and supplementary downloads like quizzes, blueprints, and other materials to help you master the skills.
Here's how design-build compares to other common project delivery methods. If you are using the design-build delivery method, you will only hire one entity, the design-builder, rather than a separate architect and contractor. Design-builders are often contractors, and many residential home builders are design-builders. Some design-builders offer complete design services, using an in-house architect or by contract with a third-party architect. In other instances, a design-builder or home builder in residential construction may have pre-developed plans and the homeowner can select which plans they would like to use, which simplifies the process. There are other delivery methods used in construction (such as construction management or integrated project delivery), but those are generally used for more complex projects.

Steve and Dave are carrying on the family tradition and passion for design-build construction. In 1986, the business bearing the family name, expanded to the Rocky Mountains. In 1991, Hammers Construction, Inc. (HCI) became an independent entity in Colorado Springs, CO.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Design-Build and Design-Bid-Build
The design-build project delivery method offers many advantages to owners in various building scenarios, but like all building projects, design-build carries some risk. Because of the breadth of a design-build contract, one of the most significant decisions the owner needs to make is selecting a design-build team. You may find design-build more appealing because you will only have one contract and be dealing with one entity. On the other hand, you may find design-bid-build more appealing because you want the flexibility of choosing the architect to provide the design services and then choosing a separate contractor to perform the construction. You may also want the assistance of the architect to provide the construction phase services rather than doing it yourself.
Therefore, it's crucial to thoroughly evaluate the nature and requirements of your project before choosing a method. At BB&R Design-Build, we offer expertise in both processes, ensuring your project's successful and efficient completion. Whether you prioritize speed, cost-effectiveness, or design control, we can provide your unique needs and help you realize your vision. Both design-build and design-bid-build have unique strengths and weaknesses, making them suitable for different projects. Design-build is often preferred for fast-track projects with tight timelines and complex designs.
The information provided is not legal opinion or legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship of any kind. Getting paid can be one of the greatest challenges in construction and has often been the detriment of construction projects. Owners who choose design-build must be willing to give up much of the control of the project, but also enjoy reduced risk. The design-build contract isn't ideal for every situation — or all stakeholders.
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