Innovative Contracting - Design-build
Description, benefits and drawbacks of design-build. Includes links to completed, current and prospective design-build projects.
Description Design-build brings designers and contractors together early in the detail design portion of a project. The owner clearly defines the standards and general specifications they expect. The design-build team must meet the owner's expectations; they may develop innovative and efficient solutions to meet those expectations.
Design-build differs from traditional methods by overlapping design and construction, allowing construction to begin after only a portion of the design has been completed. There's also a different approach to risk management and project responsibilities.
Benefits
Shortened completion time by overlapping design and construction
Construction can begin before all design details are final
Greater innovation and flexibility in selecting design, materials and construction methods
Reduced claims due to design errors because construction happens under same contract
Accelerated response time and dispute resolution through a team effort
Single contact point for quality, cost and schedule from design through construction
Shortened project delivery time which can reduce user costs
Use of best-value project award selection criteria which evaluates both technical and financial elements
Drawbacks
High learning curve because design-build changes stakeholders' roles
Parties are familiar with traditional methods
Bidding process more expensive for design-build teams
Coordination is more challenging due to faster pace
