TOPICS OF DISCUSSION

                (scroll over each topic and click) 

1. 1. What are the key differences between traditional design-bid-build and Design & Build?

   2. Design & Build has a reputation for being more functional and less ‘design’ oriented. Is this true today?

   3. What are the steps to follow for a successful project and a satisfied client?

   4. So is there still a case for the traditional method?

   5. How can D&B firms successfully manage cost cutting and value engineering?

   6. What is the good part about D&B?

   7. Where does environment sustainability fit in? Is it a priority in the fast paced world of D&B?

   8. Where is the future headed – towards traditional processes or the D&B method?

“We talk directly to the client, who is the decision maker,” says a firm owner. This rules out a lot of unnecessary interventions speeding up the entire process. “Plus payments are made from A to B, and if you establish a good rapport at the start and your design is top notch, they will give the go ahead immediately.” 

All D&B reps agree that they find it much better and easier to deal with the client directly, rather than through a contractor or a project manger.

“It also gives us referrals and repeat business,” a business development manager from one firm. “And of course there is revision, and sometimes lots of changes, but when we deliver the project, there is pride for the whole team.”

“We talk directly to the client, who is the decision maker,” says a firm owner. This rules out a lot of unnecessary interventions speeding up the entire process.”

The designers showed a clear preference to being involved right from the sales pitch. It also gives them control of the materials, having the build part in-house.

One opinion was that in a design only firm, sometimes the designers do not hold enough sway to insist on the build being as close to the design as possible. In the end, the completed project can look nothing like what the designer had envisioned.

“When you are just the designer, you often don’t learn of the budget,” explains a design director. In D&B, the designer gets to learn of the budget at the same time as the rest of the teams. “This is much better because you have control over the price and procurement, and you don’t have wastage either.”