Page 8 - TCDB combined Book

The Complete DESIGN-BUILDER

PREFACE continued…………………

The major differences between the design build method and the traditional tendered
system are the emphasis on marketing, sales and design, rather than a cycle of plan taking,
estimate preparation and bid submission. Although extra effort and time are required for the
preparation of each design-build proposal it should result in a better secured contract success rate
and healthier gross margins.
Convincing project owners’ to use the design build method will require presentation of an
established and professional technique and offer the following key points to be considered.

Honesty and integrity
Design expertise
Construction experience and knowledge
Testimonials from completed projects
Problem solving abilities

Remember that most owners’ are looking for a simple solution to solve their project
needs and will usually consider the traditional tendered method. Success will be based on your
ability to show that the timely and cost effective design build method will be beneficial to
solving their project problems. Early lead contact with all potential prospects is essential when
expecting an owner to consider using the design-build method. Project owners’ that have had
experience with the traditional method of construction contracting that involved delays and
disputes between the builder, designer and any trade contractors would be likely design-build
prospects.
Should a project be over budget using the traditional tendered method an owner will
usually be obligated to pay design fees whether the project construction proceeds or not. The
design-build method will not always require separate payment of design fees, as they are usually
included within the total project construction cost. The importance of properly qualifying
prospects before making any expenditure for proposal preparation cannot be over emphasized.
Remember that selling construction services is the objective and without written permission from
your design professionals the use of design work produced for your proposals that does not
involve the construction phase should be avoided.
The purpose of this book is not to provide specific design, legal, accounting or other
professional advice. We recommend contacting the appropriate professional for specific
situations and any problems encountered. It is our hope that all persons reading this book will
benefit from this basic transfer of knowledge and a successful career as a Design-Builder.

KIDESA PRESS