The Benefits of Design/Build
Integrated Building Solutions, Inc. is a firm believer in the design/build process. Our goal is to successfully complete all of our projects to the ultimate satisfaction of our clients. The following is a list of what IBS feels are the Benefits of Design/Build:
- Establish Cost
Secure a project cost before the start of detailed design. - Reduce Cost
Decrease the overall project cost as compared to other procurement methods
(design-bid-build, construction management, etc.). - Establish Schedule
Secure a project schedule before the start of detailed design. - Shorten Duration
Decrease the overall project completion time as compared to other procurement methods
(design-bid-build, construction management, etc.). - Reduce Claims
Decrease litigation that can be a result of separate design and construction entities. - Constructability/Innovation
Introduce construction knowledge into design early in the process.
Establish Cost
Some owners choose design/build in order to secure a fixed construction cost early on in the project. By allowing one entity total control over the design, scope and budget, there is less opportunity for scope related change orders that arise out of the conventional design-bid-build process. Additionally, by having the design and construction under one roof there is an inherent reduction in liability issues associated with increasing project cost.
Reduce Cost
Although very little empirical data exists which concludes the specific amount of cost savings produced through design/build, there is sound reasoning for an overall cost reduction. This cost reduction stems from two main components, the shortening of the overall project duration and the introduction of the contractor's knowledge into the design early on in the project.
Establish Schedule
For the same reasons some owners choose design/build to establish cost early on in the project, design/build can and may be chosen in order to establish a fixed schedule. A majority of the schedule growth in the traditional method stems from communication problems between designer and the construction organization (i.e. requests for information, design errors, design omissions, etc.). By allocating responsibility to one entity, these issues are minimized.
Reduce Schedule
Design/build promotes an overall reduction in the project schedule. Communication is greatly improved when design and construction are under one contract - this results in reduced design and construction cycle times and encourages fast-tracking
Reduce Claims
Implicit in the design/build process is an Owner's shelter from liability. The designer does not perform as an agent of the Owner as it does in the conventional design-bid-build method. By utilizing the design/build approach, design errors and omissions are solely the responsibility of the design/builder. Design/build is not a magic cure for the construction industry's litigation problems, but it does inherently promote a non-adversarial relationship between designer and builder.
Constructability/Innovation
Inherent in the design/build process is early involvement of the construction staff. Interjecting construction staff knowledge early into design fosters creative design and construction solutions. If used correctly, design/build promotes constructability and innovation in the same manner as a value engineering plan.
Notably missing from the list above is the concept that Owners select design/build because it establishes a single source of responsibility. This is the definition of design/build and it encompasses all of the selection factors. Dealing with one entity reduces administrative burden. Many Owners do not have the staff or experience to manage the traditional triad of owner-designer-builder. Taking one player out of the game lessens managerial tasks on construction projects.
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