The Design-Build Method - A Comparison of Approaches

There are three fundamental approaches to completion of a project available to an owner in today's world; "desing-bid-build", "construction management" or "design-build".

Design-Bid-Build

The "traditional" approach where an Owner hires an Architect/Engineer that designs the project, which is offered for a bid by Contractors, then constructed by the low bidder. This alternative places each of the parties in a position to defend themselves against the others, each with very different objectives. The "market-share" of Design-Bid-Build has been shrinking since the 1980's.

Construction Management

This approach may be utilized in various forms, but the "At-Risk" variant, which includes a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP), is the alternative form that best protects the Owner. The Construction Manager acts as a consultant to the Owner during the development and design phase, then as the equivalent of a general contractor during construction.

Design-Build

This is the most efficient, creative and cost-effective approach to project delivery. Design-Build positions the three major arties to work toward achieving the project objectives as a team. The Design-Builder heads a professional design team and accepts full accountability for architecture, engineering and construction within and agreed budget - from concept to completion.

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