In the construction sector, complexity and the requirement for integrated among different disciplines have been the main features. The conventional project delivery system designated as “design-bid-build” historically separated design and construction services, thus dividing the project execution in two phases. Although, last couple of decades have witnessed a remarkable shift with the emergence of design-build approach whereby design and construction services are delivered under one contract. This change signifies the metamorphosis of the approach projects are implemented to an efficient model with quick completion and better cost control.
Origins and Growth
Design build method is not totally a new approach. It can be traced to some of the ancient world’s wonders where the architect and the builder were frequently the same people or team. Nevertheless, in the contemporary era, this practice was no longer favored as projects became more elaborate hence, the need for specialization in different fields such as architecture, engineering, construction. Only in the 20th century late was when the design-build method started to gain again its popularity.
The revival of design-build is due to the necessity of the smoother construction systems. However, with the advent of larger and more complicated projects, the limitations of the design-bid-build approach became increasingly obvious. This approach typically resulted in delays, increased costs and poor coordination among the designers and contractors because of lack of coordination and communication.
Advantages of Design-Build
The integration of design and construction phases is one of the key benefits of the design-build method. This kind of integration creates more team type of environment where the designer and contractor work together right from the beginning of a project. This partnership would create innovative solutions that are not only budget-friendly but are also custom-made for the project.
Another important advantage is the decrease of delivery time. When the design and construction phases are concurrent and the whole process is managed by one entity, the project duration is substantially reduced. In the current context time is critical in areas that require quickness, for example commercial developments and infrastructure upgrades.
The Evolution of Design-Build in the Construction Industry
Cost control is another aspect by which design-build brings advantages. For the design-builder is responsible for designing and construction of the project, there is an inherent interest in keeping the project within the budget. This usually leads to cost benefits to the client, as the design build company uses its knowledge to find economically sound building solutions and avoid design conflicts, which may lead to costly changes during construction.
Challenges and Considerations
Though having lots of benefits, design-build approach has its narrow sides. One of the problems is the possible of loss of checks and balances that arises when one party is in charge of both design and construction. This sometimes causes problems related to quality of the design if not controlled properly.
Furthermore, in the design-build model the role of the client alters quite significantly. Clients should give a clear outline of their requirements and seek clarification where necessary so that the necessary adjustments later on are during a difficult and costly process. This demands a considerable degree of client-design-build firm interaction and trust.
Future Prospects
Moving ahead, designs build approach is expected to get more popular. This increase will most probably be enabled by technological developments that include the Building Information Modeling (BIM), which promotes collaboration through a digital representation of a facility’s physical and functional characteristics before it is constructed.
In addition, with more businesses and governments searching for measures of speeding construction projects and reducing costs, design-build is an attractive option. It is easily manageable in the context of the modern construction situation that relies on speed, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and the team approach that is very typical for today’s building projects.
To sum up, evolution of design-build in the construction industry indicates a considerable move towards more integrated and efficient project delivery systems. It requires the careful allocation of roles and responsibilities, but that offers the advantage of cost, time and collaborative effectiveness benefit resulting in being more and more adopted in the construction industry.
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