How Does Integrated Project Delivery Work?

When you’re a client outside of the construction industry, the jargon can be confusing. Integrated project delivery (IPD) is one of those terms. This form of project delivery has its advantages and drawbacks, like all forms of construction delivery. Here’s what you need to know before deciding to select this method.

What is integrated project delivery?

Construction involves a lot of moving parts, from the actual tools and materials to the teams who design, build and oversee a project. IPD is designed to streamline communication between all of the project’s stakeholders. Owners, designers, builders, engineers and subcontractors all work together to create and achieve the client’s vision. Since every project stakeholder has a unique set of goals and expertise, it can be incredibly helpful to get everyone together from the outset.

IPD requires more time at the beginning of the project, but you’re less likely to incur expensive changes later on down the line. When all the major parties contribute to design and planning, operations are streamlined from the start.

Compare this to traditional construction, which also requires a lot of planning at the outset—but not necessarily with the same parties. Typically, an owner will work with the designer to create a structural design. However, the designer may not know about current construction prices, limitations and other issues that could affect the price. The designer turns the project over to the builder, who may notice problems with the design or budget—but they don’t have the benefit of understanding the owner’s and designer’s reasons for choosing certain features or materials. This goes on down the line, all the way to the subcontractors.

IPD, on the other hand, gets all those major parties together. Everyone is on the same page from the beginning, which saves a lot of hassle later.

Benefits of integrated project delivery

IPD may not be right for every project, but it can be quite helpful in a lot of situations. Here are some of the benefits you’ll reap:

• Everyone works toward a single vision: When everyone has a clear idea of what they’re trying to accomplish—and more importantly, why—they’ll be able to work together to find the best possible solutions. Otherwise, you’ll play an elaborate game of “telephone” during the construction process.
• Saves time and money: Working together on a clear goal is a more efficient process overall—which means you’ll save time and money. Instead of finding out you’ll need to switch materials or building processes halfway through, you can tackle those issues from the outset. That means your budget is less likely to be affected, and your construction is more likely to get done on schedule.
• Fewer surprises: No construction project will be without issues, but when you use IPD, most of the variables will have been decided upon at the beginning. If there are surprises, your team will be well equipped to take care of them.

If you’re interested in an integrated project delivery approach to your next construction project, call Benchmark Fabricated Steel today.

Categorised in: Integrated Project Delivery

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