Framework Explorer

An Interactive Guide to Foundational Frameworks

Design-Build

Learn about Design-Build, a project delivery system in which a single entity performs both the design and construction of a project.

Key Features

Why developers choose Design-Build.

Single Point of Responsibility

The owner has a single contract with the design-builder, who is responsible for both the design and construction of the project. This reduces the owner's administrative burden and eliminates disputes between the designer and the builder.

Faster Project Delivery

Because the design and construction phases can overlap, projects can be completed more quickly than with the traditional design-bid-build method.

Cost Savings

The design-builder has an incentive to keep costs down, and the owner can benefit from these savings. Also, because the project is completed more quickly, the owner can save money on financing costs.

Improved Quality

The design-builder is responsible for both the design and construction of the project, so there is a greater incentive to produce a high-quality product.

Reduced Risk

The owner's risk is reduced because the design-builder is responsible for any errors or omissions in the design or construction of the project.

Implementation & Strategy

Costs, timelines, and strategic considerations for adopting Design-Build.

Estimated Project Costs

Design-build is a project delivery system, so it doesn't have a direct cost. However, it can have a significant impact on the overall cost of a project. By overlapping the design and construction phases, design-build can reduce the overall project schedule, which can lead to significant cost savings.

Implementation Strategy

A typical design-build project starts with the owner selecting a design-builder. The design-builder is then responsible for both the design and construction of the project. The owner has a single point of contact for the entire project, which can simplify communication and decision-making.