Design + Build Approach
The design-build method of construction has many advantages, but its essence is the idea that the interest of the Owner is best served when the designer and contractor work together under a single, accountable source of responsibility. Teamwork among the Owner, Designer and Contractor can streamline the design construction process and can provide important data early on so that the Owner can make informed decisions about the project before a substantial financial commitment is made.
What is Design + Build
In nearly every phase of modern industrial activity, a company not only designs its product but builds it as well. Automobiles, clothing, furniture, machinery, computers, space rockets, satellites –all are examples of design-build products provided by a single accountable source of responsibility.
Traditionally, it has been the belief that the cost of a construction project is determined via a bidding process. This is true only to a small degree because materials and labor have a definite cost basis. In actuality, the cost of a project is established during the planning and design stage, but it is often not known or confirmed until the traditional bidding process is complete.
The design-build method of project delivery provides a means by which a project can be developed to specific building requirements and budget. Armed with knowledge concerning initial cost, quality, operational expense, site development and maintenance requirements, project characteristics can be developed through the input of design-build team members that best reflect the Owner’s stated facility requirements and financial plans.