The design build construction approach has gained popularity in recent years for its efficiency, collaboration, and streamlined project delivery. But despite its numerous benefits, many people are still apprehensive about using this process due to several misconceptions. There may be pros and cons to any project management system, but some of these myths are so severe that they scare potential customers away from a process that would greatly help them. It’s time to debunk these common myths about design build construction and shed light on the realities of this innovative project delivery method.
Myth 1: Poor Quality
One of the most persistent myths about design build construction is that it compromises design and construction quality in favor of quick completion. This is the last thing anyone would want for their project. Potential clients fear that the integrated team structure could compromise quality oversight and result in a shabby outcome. But this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Having the design and construction teams work together from the get-go fosters a creative and collaborative culture that’s focused on delivering high-quality outcomes. Everyone is on the same page and when changes do occur it’s easy to let everyone know and pivot as quickly as possible. The design build team also employs rigorous standards, inspections, and testing to ensure the project meets the client’s needs and guarantees high quality work from all sides.
Myth 2: Limited Design Flexibility
Some believe that the design build approach limits design flexibility compared to traditional methods. This can be extremely stressful for potential customers, convinced that they have to have their entire project figured out before even meeting the design build firm. This myth also misleads people into thinking that once they’ve completed a blueprint, their project is set in stone so any better ideas or adjustments that come along must be sacrificed.
In all actuality, the design build process encourages flexibility and adaptability throughout the entire project. In fact, with some firms, designs don’t even need to be finalized before construction starts. Design build’s interactive process easily allows for real-time adjustments, change accommodations, and optimizing design solutions. Design build teams understand that clients may change their minds and project constraints can occur, which is why they are ready to shift work at a moment’s notice.
Myth 3: Higher Costs
There’s a big misconception that design build construction is more expensive than the traditional design-bid-build process. Price will usually depend on a variety of factors like your project’s scope, location, time frame, as well as which project management system you chose. But saying design build construction is always more expensive than other methods is just wrong.
According to the Design-Build Institute of America, design build projects have up to 3.8% less cost growth than traditional construction methods. This is in part thanks to setting up a budget early in the process that will cover design and construction costs.
Design build teams and the client must talk before and during the process to ensure the budget is followed. Streamlining communication, minimizing change orders, and accelerating project timelines help reduce overall project costs and deliver better value for clients.
Myth 4: Lack of Transparency
Another common myth is that design build lacks transparency and accountability. And no one wants to be in the dark on a project they’re spending money on. Design build is built on a foundation of communication and collaboration within their own teams and with their clients. This creates clearly defined roles for everyone involved and instills accountability among all project stakeholders. And with a single firm to work with, clients have greater visibility into project progress, costs, and decision making. This will put their minds at ease, knowing exactly how their project is being handled every step of the way, eliminating the worry that comes with not knowing how things are going.
Myth 5: Owner Forfeits Control
Without the client having to communicate and delegate between design and construction firms many worry they will lose control over their project with the design build process. This fear is understandable, you want your project to come out just the way you envision it don’t you? Not to worry, this myth is actually the opposite of how a design build firm works.
One of the greatest benefits to the design build process is its collaborative nature between workers and the client. A design build firm has a single point of contact for everything, so the client also knows who to talk to and ensure project goals are met and adjustments are made. This also eliminates the possibility of finger pointing between design and construction teams as everyone is working together and knows what the client wants at all times.
The level of control the client has in the process is entirely up to them though. While their input is necessary to make the project run smoothly from start to finish, design build firms can also operate with little interaction from the client so they can focus on their core business.
Myth 6: Only for Large Projects
The last myth about the design build process is that it only works for large projects. This stops potential clients with smaller plans in mind from even considering this effective approach. By its very nature the design build process can work on projects of any size and type. The process’ simplified communication and single point of contact can make smaller projects run more smoothly and get done faster without compromising quality. All the benefits large projects receive with the design build process are just as available to smaller projects.
Get Started on Your Design Build Project with Rose Today!
As the design build construction method continues to gain traction in the industry, it is essential to dispel common myths and misconceptions surrounding this innovative approach. With its integrated team, streamlined processes, and client-focused mindset, design build offers a compelling alternative to traditional project delivery methods, driving innovation and excellence in the construction industry. Contact us today and let’s work together to create your dream project with our hassle-free process.