Project Delivery - Design-Bid-Build

The Design-Bid-Build (DBB) method of project delivery is easily the most familiar to owners, architects and contractors.

D. Brown Management Profile Picture
Share

No contractor should ever lose their ability to compete, win, and build profitable projects using this method of delivery. It keeps your estimating and operations teams sharp.

CM at Risk: Project Delivery Methods - Definition of Design-Bid-Build and pros and cons.

In this method, the project owner contracts separately with the architect for design and a single prime contractor for construction.  

  • It is the primary procurement method used for public works projects.
      
  • Due to the sequential design followed by the construction workflow, it has the longest timeline.

  • Contractors are typically forced into a competitive bidding situation, resulting in a low initial construction cost.

  • Because the contractors were not involved in the design phase, there are frequently cost and schedule overruns that sometimes end in litigation.  

The negatives must be weighed against the positives for this project delivery method. In many cases this is absolutely the right method for the project.


Project Delivery - Design-Bid-Build
The preferred project delivery method. There is a reason 100 of ENR's Top 400 General Contractors use CMAR as the project delivery method for over 75% of their work. Leverage CMAR as part of your growth strategy....

Project Delivery - Design-Bid-Build
The preferred project delivery method. There is a reason 100 of ENR's Top 400 General Contractors use CMAR as the project delivery method for over 75% of their work. Leverage CMAR as part of your growth strategy....

Executive Briefing - Understanding Industry Trends
The construction industry is changing at an unprecedented rate. The challenges for contractors are compounded by the shortage of talent at all levels, including craft, management, and technical experts.
What Must Be True...
Asking the right strategic questions will ensure profitable growth in all economic conditions. Daily operational management is about adapting to what is currently true. Effective executive leadership creatively bridges the gap between the two.
Strategic Foundations: What Is Unlikely to Change?
Like construction projects, construction businesses are only as strong as their foundations. Build your strategies around things that are unlikely to change in the long-term (10+ years).