Design-build is a method of project delivery in which one entity – the design-build team – works under a single contract for all design and construction issues – including cost, scheduling, quality control and delivery date. One entity, one contract, one unified flow of work from initial concept through completion. This simple but fundamental difference saves money and time by transforming the relationship between designers and builders into an alliance which fosters collaboration and teamwork. United from the outset of every project. As a result, communication becomes more direct and fewer problems arise.

Integrated design-build teams are more efficient and responsive to owner’s concerns These teams respond seamlessly to issues as they occur, working together to find the best solutions to day-to-day challenges.

Completed about 30% faster than other construction methods, design-build enables design, engineering, and construction phases to overlap and influence each other. Construction begins before design is finalized, allowing projects to begin (and end) earlier than possible with traditional procurement methods. Also, designs can be modified should the construction crew encounter complex site conditions.

Owners don’t need to negotiate multiple contracts for the same project, nor must they allocate time to manage these contracts. In addition, a single contract means that issues of cost, schedule, quality, responsibility and risk management are clearly spelled out in one document.

Design-build reduces costs an average of about 6%, with the fewest average change-orders of any contract method. Because designers and builders collaborate throughout all stages of construction, they are constantly working to choose the best, most cost-effective building materials and construction methods. Further, design-build allows owners to review additional expenses as a project progresses, keeping jobs on-budget and eliminating fiscal surprises at project completion.

Design-build encourages problem solving and team work among owners, designers, and contractors. Because project design, engineering and construction develop simultaneously, design-builders are encouraged to create innovative solutions that enable on-time, on-budget results.

In our experience, the most critical success factor in a Design Build process is open communication and transparency between the General Contractor and the Owner.

Our portfolio of design-build projects proves Terratech’s success in working with owners to deliver outstanding results using this method.