The design-bid-build project delivery method has dominated the construction landscape for many years.

Under this methodology, contractors commonly bid on fully completed designs drawn to code with cost estimates, specification guidelines, material recommendations and other pertinent details already included in the planning. The design documents are developed by the design team under a single contract with the project owner before the bidding begins. A separate contract is then held between the owner and construction firm or contractor, which may help reduce the contractor’s professional liability (except for the exposures to construction management errors) related to both design and construction issues. Read more.