Our president, Tim Harmon, recently spoke at an On the Table event about Understanding the Design-Build Approach. Here are a few key points from the presentation:
• Design-Build is a teaming approach to a project
• Provides a single-point of responsibility for both design and construction of a project
• Owner gets a “one-stop shop” for design and construction requirements while the design-builder assumes most risks and responsibilities in the agreement
• Owner’s Vision
• A well defined scope of work
• A specific range of responsibility for each team member and criteria for measurement
• A knowledgeable project owner who can make quick, sound decisions
• Experienced, competent team members
• Trustworthy help from consultants and/or others
• It is essential to have a good-standing relationship with and trust your design-builder
For the most part, choosing design-build means saving money, saving time and is the overall best value. However, it is important to do your research and speak with advisers to determine the best approach for your particular project.
• Approximately 12% less cost than the traditional design-bid-build approach
• Communication is greatly enhanced by pulling all essential team members to the table early
• Preconstruction estimates are highly accurate
• A guaranteed maximum price can be established early
• Subcontractors contract directly to the design-builder
In general, most Con’s can be eliminated with a strong, trustworthy relationship between owner and design-builder.
• The designer is often a consultant to the builder, this will possibly eliminate important checks and balances
• Many design-build companies do not share the results of subcontractor bidding with the owner
• Design-build designers may not have the experience needed for each specific project
Please contact us if you’d like to learn more about this approach or the construction process in general.
Posted on
Tue, May 17, 2011
by Christina Beaird
filed under