Design/Build is a project delivery method in which both the design and construction services are under a single contract with the Owner. This entity, referred to as the design-builder, is a single source responsible for taking a project from initial concept through completion. Typically, the use of design/build project delivery reduces the length of the project schedule because the design phases and the construction phases are integrated and overlap.
Contract is between the Owner and a single entity: the Design/Build Team. This results in a single source of accountability for the duration of the entire project.
- Design/Build project delivery is ideal for a project under tight schedule circumstances. This is because construction scheduling for the project can begin before the design is finalized. Additionally, bid time is reduced and potential construction issues that could occur in the field are typically uncovered and mitigated earlier in the process.
- Owners entering into a Design/Build agreement should have a well-defined scope and concept prior to selecting their Design/Build Team to capitalize on schedule benefits.
- Design/Build project delivery is most effective for Owners with smaller decision-making committees or for Owners that foresee minimal mid-course design changes.
- In a Design/Build agreement, the Owner receives a comprehensive design and construction project cost early in the process (as opposed to the traditional design-bid-build method where the Owner must wait for bid results).