Design-Build Management

Design-Build Project delivery has increased in acceptance and use in recent years. Properly executed, Design-Build can speed construction and reduce costs. Owners find Design-Build delivery attractive because it places risk in one entity and can free the Owner from managing both the Contractor and Design Professionals.

Design-Build delivery method has been used on a wide variety of projects including powerplants, hotels, and even an expansion to the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City. However, Design-Build does not fit all projects, but can be highly effective when applied in the appropriate situation.

In an organization chart format, traditional Design-Bid-Build delivery has the Contractor and Architect both reporting directly to the Owner as follows:

While Design-Build project delivery has the contractor solely reporting to the Owner and the Architect reporting to the Contractor as follows:

Unlike traditional construction where the Owner directs the conceptual, schematic, and final plans for the building, Design-Build places responsibility for design with the Contractor.

Challenges of Design- Build

The challenges with Design-Build contracting are twofold. First determining whether the project is appropriate for a Design-Build delivery. Second, managing the relationship between the Design-Builder and the Owner to maximize the benefit to both parties.

The Owner organizations must recognize that committing to Design-Build delivery requires significant commitment to planning and preparation. Key to determining whether to use Design-Build is defining the project parameters and desired performance of the facility when complete. If this can establish early in the project, then the project may be appropriate for Design-Build delivery.

Prior to committing to Design-Build delivery Cimarron evaluates both internal Owner criteria and external criteria. Other Criteria, such as the experience of the Owner organization with Design-Build projects and expectations are useful in determining the delivery method. Cimarron will develop a risk/benefit comparison and analysis between Design-Build and traditional methods and present this to the Owner with a recommendation.

The Role of Cimarron Construction Advisors& Construction Managers

Cimarron provides the management oversight and establishes controls to maximize the benefits of Design-Build delivery. The overarching goal is to produce the desired result for the Owner. Cimarron’s role in the organization chart is as follows:

Upon commitment to Design-Build, Cimarron Construction Advisors & Construction Managers will be the Owners advocate to maximize the benefits of this approach and deliver the highest possible value.

Your Project

Contact Cimarron Construction Advisors & Construction Managers today for an initial consultation regarding your project and whether Design-Build delivery is the best option.