Single-source design and production has long been a cornerstone of our economy. This fact has led to the natural evolution of design build within commercial construction. With the design build approach, Bobbitt accepts full responsibility for the project, integrating conceptual design with the logistical challenges of the construction process.
American structures such as the Brooklyn Bridge and the Pentagon used this master builder approach. Yet, the process fell out of favor through the Industrial Revolution. Significant cost efficiencies and the ability to reduce construction timelines have led to a strong resurgence.
The United States government, the largest purchaser of construction in the world, has a stated goal of 75-80% of their work being designed and constructed by this method. In MILCON conferences throughout the Southeast, the reasons given to support this goal are that design build saves time, saves money, and in the end, entails less litigation. Simply put, design build creates a team working together to deliver a product (your new or renovated space) on time and within budget.
Advantages of Design Build
The advantages of time savings, monetary savings and reduced litigation are achieved through the early involvement of the design build professional in the project. The building owner/occupant, designers and constructors can work together to develop a plan that meets your needs today and into the future – and do it at an affordable price. Early cost input helps with the decision process.
Process
Throughout the design process – from the initial program outline through the conceptual plans, preliminary plans, construction drawings and permitting – the design build professional can provide valuable input on material selection and construction methods and provide cost information to assist with the decision-making process. To effectively manage your project, the design build professional will provide the resources, ranging from other design specialists, engineers, specialty contractors and suppliers, who can provide the necessary input and expertise to ensure success.
Single Source
Since most building owners do not have a staff to dedicate to the project design, working with a single source can keep the project from becoming overwhelming. The design build professional will integrate the design elements, regulatory requirements and budgetary requirements into a cohesive plan. With a single source, there is a greater feeling of teamwork and less opportunity for finger pointing.
How to Select a Design Build Professional
Once the decision has been made to use design build as the process to renovate your existing space or construct a new building, your next question is how to select a design build professional. In your evaluation, several factors should be considered:
Experience – Look for a design build professional who has a proven track record of successfully delivering similar projects on time and within budget.
References – Ask to see their completed project experience and obtain references and contact information.
Financial Stability – Even as the economy improves, it is essential to work with a partner that has the financial strength to complete your project, pay their bills and fulfill their warranty.
Qualified Subcontractors – A good indicator of the quality and integrity of the design build professional is the subcontractors they use. When quality subcontractors are on the job, projects will be well managed, and job sites remain clean and safe. Subcontractor financial stability and dependability ensures they will be around after the project is complete to address any warranty or service issues that may arise.
In the end, what matters is that you have partnered with a design build professional who has the capability and wherewithal to complete your project on time, within budget and in a manner that exceeds your expectations. The Bobbitt Design Build team cares about the success of your project, and we want our clients to be so pleased that they will gladly be a reference for future projects. With Bobbitt in your corner, you will get the facility you want at the best value, giving you with the greatest long-term return on your investment.
