Differences Between Design-Assist and Design-Build

November 18, 2020 5:31 am Published by Leave your thoughts

Design-assist and design-build are two different kinds of construction methods. They sound similar, but they’re very different ways of achieving your goals. Neither is better or worse overall—the right type of construction solely depends on your project’s needs.

If you’re trying to determine whether design-assist or design-build is right for your next project, read on to learn about the differences between the two methods, and the benefits of each.

What is design-assist?

Design-assist construction in Indiana is when an owner engages a design professional as well as a construction team. The construction team works with the designer during the design phase, helping to reduce construction costs, improve efficiency and ensure that the plans are prudent. Doing this at the outset can address any problems before the bids and construction begin, ultimately saving a lot of time and money. Any construction team that works on a design-assist project should make sure the expectations are laid out right away, in order to avoid potential legal liability.

Design-assist is different from traditional construction in that contractors rarely see the plans until it’s time to bid on the project. That means they run the risk of finding problems well after the designs are completed, which can increase costs. For example, if the designer’s plans can be improved by a different plumbing configuration, you’d want to know that sooner rather than later.

This type of construction planning also engages the key subcontractors, like plumbers and electricians. The end result is a project that has been observed and improved by the people who know their field best.

What is design-build?

Design-build is when an Indiana property owner hires a single team to design and build their project. This might include subcontractors for specialized work, but the general contractor is the one responsible for the project if anything goes wrong.

Design-build projects are advantageous because all the key players are on the same team. This allows the general contractor to take total control over the project, soliciting help and opinions from subcontractors and the owner as necessary. Since the same people are involved in the project from beginning to end, the communication is good and there’s no need to educate newcomers as to the intricacies of the project. This saves time, and also allows the owner to be more involved in everything from the design to communication. Streamlining the process to involve only one firm can remove a lot of the issues that can hold up a project.

Finally, using a design-build firm can save an average of 6 percent on your construction project—and there are few owners who don’t love saving money.

Whatever type of design and construction process you choose, make sure you work with the most reputable companies available.

Benchmark Fabricated Steel is available to design and build your steel projects in Indiana. We specialize in steel construction and have served area clients for nearly 50 years. Get in touch with us today to learn more about what our full-service company can do for you.

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