
Progressive design-build (PDB) is a two-phased project delivery method that enhances collaboration, teamwork and value, while reducing upfront time and investment in procurement. In phase 1 of progressive design-build, the design-build team, which is selected predominantly on qualifications, collaborates with the owner to develop the project scope, schedule, preliminary design and a cost-certain offer or guaranteed maximum price (GMP) to complete detailed design and construction. If an owner finds the proposal acceptable, the team enters phase 2 for detailed design, construction and startup.
When the owner selects its progressive design-build partner based on qualifications, experience and past performance, the cost of entry is typically lower and the procurement timeline is accelerated for both owners and design-builders. Owners can focus on finding the team that is most qualified, is most suited to their needs and can most effectively manage cost, schedule and risk. Their obligation to manage multiple bidders, approaches and proposals is eliminated. From a macro level, progressive design-build represents a more efficient use of both the owner’s and the market’s limited resources.
The even greater benefit of progressive design-build, however, is the collaboration it allows between the owner and design-builder from the project’s onset. From day one, the design-build team can parse through the owner’s goals and requirements, looking for opportunities to optimize design and construction, thereby reducing costs, risks and the project schedule.
Owners who want to enhance accountability under a progressive design-build contractual framework have multiple opportunities to address concerns. An “off-ramp” for owners is built into the progressive design-build process at the close of phase 1. At this point, owners can “tap the brakes” on a project and assess whether the GMP is fair, reasonable and transparent. If the owner is satisfied with this review, the design-builder can enter a contract for final design and construction. Those with reservations can choose the off-ramp and procure final design and construction in any alternative manner they choose. Owners are under no obligation to contract for detailed design and construction until they are satisfied that the phase 2 proposal is transparent and the cost is competitive. If desired, owners can validate costs using an independent cost estimator.