Design-Build is Better, Fast, and More Cost-Effective

The design-build method of commercial or industrial construction offers an attractive alternative to the traditional design-bid-build approach. The Design-Build Institute of America defines the design-build process as a system of contracting whereby one entity performs both engineering and construction services under one single contract. The benefits to the client include the potential for a lower final project cost, an expedited schedule and a significant reduction of risk. It is possible to have the design-build process applied to just a portion of your project. Many owners elect to have only the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems to be performed in the design-build process.

A Single Point of Accountability Disputes between design and construction firms historically have plagued the commercial and industrial construction industry.

Because large projects are highly complex, it can be difficult to truly determine fault when something goes wrong. Engineers are prone to finding fault with the general contractor, who inevitably blames the problem on poor design or errors in the construction drawings.

Drawn-out legal battles are unfortunately common, but in many cases, it’s the project owner who really suffers. With possible delays, cost overruns and legal fees, the chance of having your project completed on time and within budget is a long shot, unless you have a design-build agreement, as one entity is responsible for all aspects of the project.

Added Value with Reduced Risk With any large commercial project, the client carries a significant level of risk. Errors and omissions are all too common when a project’s scope is vast, or project duration needs to be shortened.

Again, the owner is the one who’s harmed most.

By dealing with one firm for the delivery of all services, however, that risk is lowered.

In addition to reducing risk, the design-build process can add significant value to your project. Because costs can be identified early on in the process, the D-B firm can work with you to maximize the project’s budget. This also eliminates the unpleasant cost-related surprises that can come at the end of a traditional project.

Cost and Time Savings The risks of both cost and schedule overruns also are reduced in a design-build arrangement. In fact, this approach provides the most efficient means of overall project control.

Time savings comes from the increased level of coordination that the process offers. The centralized point of contact eliminates the coordination and communication problems common between engineer and contractor. Because they are established much earlier in the project, both time and costs can be reduced. If a particular system or facet comes in over budget in the preliminary pricing phase, the design-build entity is able to value engineer or alter the consequences of the changes to the owner.

In the traditional approach, the client has no way of knowing which parts of the project might be cost-prohibitive until the design has been completed, and it has gone through the bid process.

DesignTek Consulting Group provides comprehensive and efficient design, engineering and construction solutions for commercial, industrial and cleanroom projects. We are based in Salt Lake City, Utah, but we provide professional services to clients throughout the United States and around the world.

Contact us today to learn more about how your project can benefit from the design-build process.