The primary design method used in the construction industry is design-bid-build, which is where a Developer hires a design team to complete design documents and also hires a contractor, under a separate contract, to build off those documents. An alternative to this approach is a design-build contract which is where the Developer hires a single entity, often times a contractor, to take on the building and design responsibilities for their project.
In a recent study performed by FMI, they are projecting by 2021 the design-build delivery method to reach nearly half (44%) of the construction put in place which would be an increase of 18% from today. That is a rather large increase in only a three-year span. Why the shift? Design-build promotes more of a collaborative/team approach, working together to meet the developer’s schedule and budget, whereas the more conventional design-bid-build, tends to be a little more contentious between the designer and builder.
Fortunately, The Douglas Company has demonstrated the ability to be flexible to suit our client’s needs, whether it is design-bid-build, design assist, or design-build. Should the industry shift towards more design-build opportunities, we will be prepared.
Drew Rahrig, LEED AP
Vice President, Construction
The Douglas Company
