Why DES vs BMS?

There's a long-standing debate among construction professionals about the relative merits of Design-Build (DB) and Design-Bid-Build (DBB) project delivery methods. Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for a particular project will depend on a number of factors.

What is Design-Build (DB)?

In a Design-Build project, the owner contracts with a single entity, the design-builder, to both design and construct the project. The design-builder is responsible for all aspects of the project, from the initial design concept to the final construction.

Advantages of Design-Build

• Single point of contact: The owner has a single point of contact for all aspects of the project, which can streamline communication and decision-making.
• Increased efficiency: The design and construction phases of the project are overlapped, which can reduce the overall project timeline and cost.
• Improved quality: The design-builder has a vested interest in the success of the project, which can lead to higher quality construction.

Disadvantages of Design-Build

• Less competition: The owner has less opportunity to shop around for the best price, as there is only one entity bidding on the project.
• Less control: The owner has less control over the design and construction of the project, as the design-builder is responsible for all aspects of the project.
• Increased risk: The owner bears more risk in a Design-Build project, as the design-builder is responsible for any errors or omissions in the design or construction.

What is Design-Bid-Build (DBB)?

In a Design-Bid-Build project, the owner first hires an architect or engineer to design the project. Once the design is complete, the owner bids out the construction of the project to multiple contractors. The owner then selects the contractor who offers the best price for the project.

Advantages of Design-Bid-Build

• More competition: The owner has more opportunity to shop around for the best price, as there are multiple contractors bidding on the project.
• More control: The owner has more control over the design and construction of the project, as the architect or engineer is responsible for the design and the contractor is responsible for the construction.
• Less risk: The owner bears less risk in a Design-Bid-Build project, as the architect or engineer is responsible for any errors or omissions in the design and the contractor is responsible for any errors or omissions in the construction.

Disadvantages of Design-Bid-Build

• Less efficiency: The design and construction phases of the project are not overlapped, which can lead to a longer overall project timeline and higher cost.
• Potential for disputes: There is a greater potential for disputes between the owner, the architect or engineer, and the contractor in a Design-Bid-Build project, as each party has their own interests to protect.

DES vs BMS: Which is Right for Your Project?

The best project delivery method for a particular project will depend on a number of factors, including the size and complexity of the project, the owner's budget and timeline, and the owner's risk tolerance.

In general, DES is a good option for projects that are:

• Large and complex
• On a tight deadline
• Have a high budget
• Require a high level of quality

DBB is a good option for projects that are:

• Small and simple
• Not on a tight deadline
• Have a low budget
• Do not require a high level of quality

Conclusion

Both DES and DBB have their own advantages and disadvantages. The best project delivery method for a particular project will depend on a number of factors. By carefully considering the factors involved, owners can make an informed decision about which project delivery method is right for their project.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between DES and DBB?

A: In DES, the owner contracts with a single entity, the design-builder, to both design and construct the project. In DBB, the owner first hires an architect or engineer to design the project. Once the design is complete, the owner bids out the construction of the project to multiple contractors.

Q: Which project delivery method is better, DES or DBB?

A: The best project delivery method for a particular project will depend on a number of factors, including the size and complexity of the project, the owner's budget and timeline, and the owner's risk tolerance.

Q: What are the advantages of DES?

A: Advantages of DES include a single point of contact, increased efficiency, and improved quality.

Q: What are the disadvantages of DES?

A: Disadvantages of DES include less competition, less control, and increased risk.

Q: What are the advantages of DBB?

A: Advantages of DBB include more competition, more control, and less risk.