Essentially, Design/Build is distinct from design-bid-build in that one company handles all phases of the project. In design-bid-build, two separate entities are hired: one to handle design, the other to build the project. However common the latter framework may be, the opportunities for cost reduction, schedule acceleration and high-quality results in Design/Build are just too great to pass up.
Now that you know a little bit about what Design/Build is, here are a few reasons why you should consider using it for your next project:
'Symphony of collaboration'
That's the phrase the American Institute of Architects (AIA) used to describe the effect that the Design/Build process can have on the working relationship between property owner and a single firm for design and construction needs. In design-bid-build, developers have to operate on two fronts, and may even have to act as the middleman and resolve conflicts. This fragmentation takes focus away from important project details.
Under Design/Build, owners are freed from the responsibility of playing mediator between two parties and can really engage with their single provider. The positive impacts that such levels of collaboration and communication have on projects are untold compared to design-bid-build.
Cost savings and quality results
Besides fostering a collaborative atmosphere, the Design/Build process also produces a number of tangible benefits throughout the lifetime of a project. In a study comparing Design/Build and design-bid-build projects, the Construction Industry Institute (CII) found Design/Build projects "outperformed [design-bid-build] projects in cost, schedule, changes, rework, and practice use."
Design/Build is able to generate such advantages mainly because of its structure. When there's only one firm, the view of the project becomes a whole lot clearer and easier to manage. Everything else flows naturally from streamlined workflows and enhanced project coordination that Design/Build facilitates.
Strategic partnership
It can be complicated to rally disparate contractors — and their own subcontractors — around a shared project concept. Yet doing so is critical to building a strategic relationship that helps mutual stakeholders anticipate problems and craft informed solutions.
As a firm with decades of experience in Design/Build, Keystone Construction Company understands this dynamic to be among the most important qualities of a successful project. Having a reliable partner throughout every stage of designing and building is priceless when it comes to forming a cohesive strategic vision.
For more information on how Keystone and the Design/Build process can help with your project, contact us today.