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Design Build Construction

Design build construction is a modern construction method that has been gaining momentum and supporters over the past decade. It has major differences from the traditional method, where the architect is hired and then the construction aspect of the project is put out for bid. These differences, according to design build construction supporters, make the process more efficient and cheaper than other methods.

The design build construction method combines the architect or designer and the general contractor into a single, unified team from the outset of the project. This differs from the traditional design-bid-build method and, supporters say, reduces the stresses between architect and contractor as the two are not forced together by the bidding process, but already have a comfort level working with one another. The design build construction approach brings together design and construction professionals in a collaborative environment that allows tasks to be completed efficiently--if need be, in an overlapping fashion.

Design build construction can be a team process, where an architectural firm and a general contractor with a past history of success working with one another join forces to pursue a new project. Increasingly, however, construction firms are bringing on architects and architectural firms are bringing in construction teams to compete for design build construction projects. If a general contractor is in pursuit of a design build construction contract, the process is called contractor-led design build; in turn, if a design firm is in pursuit of the project, it is deemed design-led design build.

Supporters of design build construction say the method leads to enhanced communication between all parties, as the divide between architect and contractor is removed; increased accountability and single source project delivery. Opponents say design build construction's flaws include premature cost estimating, as the team will understate their costs to win a project; a short-cut design process that cuts out oversight and the increased likelihood that completed work will have to be corrected, causing higher final costs for the client.

Whatever the pros and cons of design build construction may be, there is no question that the design method is gaining increased support in the building marketplace.

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