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Design and Build: A Procurement Route for Improved Quality

design and build

Design and build is a procurement route growing in popularity in recent years.

We will discuss how it works and what are some of its key benefits if you are planning to engage a contractor to do it.

History of Design and Build

For many years, major construction projects have utilized the Master Builder approach.

This build approach was used to build masterworks of architecture and construction including Djoser's Stairs, the Florence Cathedral, Egyptian Pyramids, the Ishtar Gate, and so on.

Under this approach, the owner contracts with a single organization that is responsible for both design and construction.

This design builder system was later replaced by the traditional Design-Bid-Build method in which the owner has separate contracts with the designer and constructor.

The designer creates the plans and specifications, which are then put out to bid by potential contractors.

The lowest bidder is then awarded the construction contract.

This system has been used for many years and is still the most common procurement route in the design construction industry today.

However, it has some drawbacks.

In Design-Bid-Build, the design phase is completed before construction begins.

This can lead to problems because the design may not be completely accurate or realistic.

As a result, construction may be delayed or halted due to errors in the design that were not discovered until after work had already begun.

Another issue with this procurement route is that there is often a lack of communication between the designer and constructor.

This can lead to misunderstandings about what needs to be done, which can cause delays and cost overruns.

Design Build Method Vs Traditional Method

In recent years, there has been a shift towards using the Design-Build procurement route.

Under this method, the owner contracts with a single organization that is responsible for both design and construction.

This allows for better communication between the designer and constructor because they are working together from the start.

It also eliminates the risk of errors in the design because construction can begin while the design is still being completed.

This procurement route has many benefits, but it also has some drawbacks.

One of the main advantages of Design-Build is that it saves money and time.

Since construction can begin while the design is still being completed, there is no need to wait until everything is finalized before work can begin.

This can lead to a shorter overall timeline for the project.

It can also save money because it reduces the risk of errors in the design that could cause construction to be delayed or halted.

Another advantage of Design-Build is that it allows for more flexibility.

Since the designer and constructor are working together from the start, they can make changes to the plans as needed which lead to better project management.

This can be helpful if there are issues that need to be addressed during construction.

However, one of the drawbacks of Design Build approach is that it can be more expensive.

Since the design and construction phases are being done by the same organization, they will charge a higher price for their construction services.

It is important to weigh all of these factors before deciding which project delivery systems are right for you.

The Design-Build method is regarded the "gold standard" of building because it ensures that the architect is solely accountable for the project's success as he or she is the sole project owner. Today, we refer to this as Design-Build construction.

When To Use Design and Construction Services?

It can be used for a wide range of projects, from small-scale home renovations to large-scale commercial developments.

It is particularly well-suited for fast-tracked or projects that involve complex designs where there is a need for close coordination between the design and construction project team.

If you are looking for a hassle-free experience and improved quality, then the design build process may be the right option for you.

What Are The Stages Of A Design And Build Project?

There are four main phases in a design and build project:

design and build phases

First Stage

This is the feasibility study phase, where the Design and Build firm will assess the project site and come up with an initial concept design.

Second Stage

This is the development phase, where the company will develop the detailed design according to the client brief. This will minimize risks of project delivery schedule delays and managing disparate contracts.

Third Stage

This is the construction phase, where they will begin the construction process.

Final Stage

This is project delivery stage, where they will hand over the completed development to the client.

What Are The Benefits Of Using The Design And Build Process?

There are several advantages to using the design and build procurement route:

1. You will have a single point of contact throughout the duration of the design build projects.

Avoid delays due to the use of sub contractors or multiple project owners.

2. The design build team can offer suggestions on how to construct the project more efficiently based on functional requirements, which can save time and avoid cost overruns.

3. Design and build firms often have in-house designers, so you may not need to engage separate consultants.

This allows you to rectify any design errors and make changes to the build contracts

4. Because the design and build team is responsible for both the design and construction, they have a greater incentive to deliver a high-quality product.

How Much Does A Design And Build Project Cost In Singapore?

design and build cost

There is no simple answer to this question as the cost of a design and build project can vary greatly depending on the size and scope of the project.

Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between 15% and 20% more for the entire project than you would for a traditional construction project.

However, this additional cost is often offset by the increased efficiency and quality that comes with using design build firms.

If you are interested in learning more about design and build pricing, we recommend talking to one of our experts.

How To Select Design Build Contractors For Your Project?

If you are thinking of going down the design and build route for your next project, we recommend that you do some research first or talk to us for more information.

Design and build has many benefits but it may not be suitable for every type of project.

When selecting a design build contractor, it is important to consider their experience, track record, past featured projects and capability.

You should also ask for references from previous clients.

Once you have shortlisted a few contractors, hold interviews with them to get a better sense of their suitability for your project.

Finally, remember to include clauses in the contract that protect your interests and ensure that the quality of work is up to standard.

With proper planning and execution, using the design and build procurement route can lead to improved quality for your development.

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