What is Design|Build?

Design|Build (D|B) is a method of project delivery in which one entity - the design-build team – typically comprised of an engineer and a contractor, works under a single contract with the project owner to provide design, inspection, maintenance, and construction services. In this approach, there is one entity, one contract, one unified flow of work from initial concept through completion.

Design-build streamlines project delivery through a single contract between the owner and the design-build team. This simple but fundamental difference saves money and time by transforming the relationship between designers and builders into an alliance which fosters collaboration and teamwork.

To that end, D|B is known for its single-source chain of responsibility. The approach minimizes the finger-pointing that often accompanies a typical design|bid|build (D|B|B) relationship. Under the latter approach, design and construction are split - separate entities, separate contracts, separate work.

One approach is not necessarily better than the other. They both have benefits and drawbacks and each individual initiative should be weighed to determine which approach would be more beneficial.

Across the country and around the world, D|B has successfully delivered a variety of projects, including office buildings, schools, stadiums, transportation and water infrastructure projects, with superior results. Over the past 15 years, use of D|B has greatly accelerated in the United States, making this delivery method one of the most significant trends in design and construction today.