What are the advantages of design/build contracting? There are several: Cost-effective, collaborative, and time-saving. If you’ve never heard of it, read on to discover what you can expect from the process. Below are some of the essential benefits of design/build contracting. You’ll be amazed by how easy it can be to get started. Let’s learn more! Here are some of the benefits.
Cost-effective
The benefits of cost-effective design/build contracting are numerous. One study examined how design-build contracts affect construction project length, cost, and quality. A survey of design/build project managers in toll agencies, STAs, and local transportation agencies was undertaken. Respondents were asked to estimate the change in project duration, cost, and quality using their best judgment. The results showed that the cost of design/build projects was approximately one-third higher than that of traditional construction methods.
In addition to cost-effectiveness, design-build contracting offers an improved level of project control. Using a single contract for design and construction eliminates coordination issues between the contractor and engineer. Unlike traditional construction processes, design/build entities also have the expertise to value-engineer systems that run over budget and change the owner’s consequences. As a result, cost-effective design/build contracting can be advantageous for many construction projects.
When using a design/build contract, it is best to work with a company that works with a negotiated bid system like the framework for design-build contractor Sacramento, CA. Negotiated bid contracts allow for termination after the design phase. In addition, design/build firms often offer discounts if they perform both construction and design services. A negotiated bid system requires the contractor to share estimating data with the owner and negotiate a fee for the entire project. This system is also more expensive but is often the best choice for smaller projects.
Time-saving
One of the most significant advantages of a design/build contract is the reduced chance of cost overruns and schedule delays. A design-build approach ensures a seamless transition from pre-design to completion and eliminates the need to deal with intermediaries. There are also fewer chances of changing orders and fewer delays. However, design/build contractors can charge twice as much as their designers.
Compared to traditional construction, design/build projects are completed 33% faster. As a result, there are fewer steps, and materials and labor can be ordered only when needed. This minimizes waste and unnecessary orders of additional materials. Moreover, design/build companies are staffed with full-time employees. Furthermore, they are not dependent on subcontractors. As a result, design/build companies can focus on providing better customer service.
Another time-saving benefit of design/build contracting is that it reduces the owner’s workload by eliminating multiple parties. Since design and construction are completed under one roof, there is a single point of contact for every aspect of the project. Moreover, the same team can schedule all phases of the project. Consequently, there will be fewer paperwork and communication issues, and the overall project will be completed much faster.
Collaborative
If you are an architect or a design-build firm, you may want to explore the benefits of collaborative design/build contracting. While this approach may not be for every design-build firm, it may represent a new business avenue. The following are some key points to keep in mind. First, a successful collaborative design/build team will work with both the architect and the contractor to create the best solution for the project.
The role of the design-build company depends on the services that the design professional provides, but generally, they will handle the construction portion of a project. Once the homeowner engages a design professional, they should identify the additional design services they need. They should then discuss these benefits with their designer to help decide whether adding a design-build company to the mix is right for them. Moreover, the design professional should be open to discussing the design’s role in the project.
Using design/build also means a better project budget. Since the owner has less responsibility than the designer, the project budget is more accurate. It also reduces the chances of changes. Collaborative design/build project management also helps owners reduce their risk and burden by allowing teams to share ideas and concerns early in the process. In addition, the process eliminates potential conflicts between designers and contractors and makes it easier to manage the project.