The Design-Build Process
What it is
Just as simple as it sounds, the design-build process is the melding of the preconstruction processes (concept creation, design, budgeting, project planning, zoning/permitting, contracting/subcontracting) with construction (material procurement, installation, draws, coordination, inspections, etc.). The design-build process comes in different forms:
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Single Point: The designer and GC are the same entity, nearly eliminating any risk of miscommunication between preconstruction and construction efforts.
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Collaborative Approach: The designer and GC work together from the start, working through as many details of the project as possible before ground is broken.
In short, it's almost entirely about having a more robust conversation at the front end of the job. It's like setting a neat row of dominos and then double (or triple) checking that everything is set in place before you topple that first domino. Building can be a complicated endeavor. Taking that little bit of extra time up front saves time, money, and headaches every time.
What it isn't
More and more, construction companies add the "Design-Build" suffix to their name to serve as another strong SEO keyword, but most rarely hold up to the fairly accessible marks needed to define themselves as such. If a building company:
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Doesn't have an in-house draftsman or isn't working closely with a design firm
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Refers you to a designer or draftsman, then pauses communication until the design process is finished
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Offers little to no insight into the constructability of your vision
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Offers little to no insight into the conceptual budget of your vision
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Doesn't establish clear expectations for how the project will be managed, such as;
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How change orders will be processed​
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How/when draws will be made
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Estimated project timeline
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Line item project costs, fees, and contract terms/conditions
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Then they aren't a design-build company. Understand, they may still be an excellent builder! But if they miss any one of these points, it's not a design-build company.
Let’s Work Together
Whether you're just starting to look into a new project, or you have your builder selected, feel free to give us to call to see if MCR Design-Build can help guide your project towards a true design-build approach. If we're not a good fit, we'll be the first ones to say so!