The traditional design-bid-build method is being replaced with design-build contracts in building projects. In this article, we discuss what design-build construction method is, how it works, and its advantages to both owners and contractors.
What is Design-build?
Design-build Minneapolis is a method of managing construction projects that unifies the contracts under a single designated point of contact or design-builder. Many people believe that design-build is a more contemporary method of project delivery than the alternate, design-bid-build. In a design-build project, the project owner typically wants to use just one company to streamline the customary construction processes.
Any project size, from minor renovations to complete building construction, may be handled using the design-build method. This method’s popularity is rising in both private and public enterprises across the United States.
How does it work?
In a design-build project, the project owner engages a design-builder who manages the entire undertaking and contracts with any necessary subcontractors and sub-consultants, such as architects and engineers.
A design-build construction company may have in-house engineers and architects or contract outside engineering and architectural firms as sub-consultants. In addition, on a design-build project, the lead firm will hire any required construction subcontractors and specialists, such as plumbers and electricians.
This arrangement enables the owner and the design-builder to work as a more cohesive team, which may speed up work and simplify communication. For instance, the design-builder can assess design plans as the architects and engineers develop them and talk with the owner about future expenses.
The benefits of the design-build method
Here are the unique benefits that the design-build construction method offers
- It is economical
The price of finishing a project this way is typically lower due to the effectiveness and speed of design-build projects. Because the entire team can identify concerns before they become costly, the owner can prevent any expensive design flaws that they might otherwise not be aware of until once construction has already started. Due to hiring everyone at once through one business, a design-build project may initially cost more, but by the time the team has finished the project, costs should have decreased.
- Better collaboration
The design-build Minneapolis team and the owner are in this together to accomplish a project that meets or exceeds the owner’s expectations. This group of designers and design-assist consultants is formed relatively early on in the design process. Pointing fingers is not an option when projects have difficulties. Instead, a single contract with the owner is what the design-build team is entirely responsible for. As a result, whether there are difficulties with the design, budget, or construction, everyone digs in and works as a team to find answers.
- Faster delivery
A team may complete design-build projects faster than design-bid-build projects because design-build is a streamlined approach. This is especially true when several groups work simultaneously, such as when construction starts while the design phase is still in progress. Additionally, unlike in design-bid-build projects, there is no wait between the conclusion of the design phase and the start of the building phase while the owner solicits construction company bids.