Design and build contractor

A design and build (D&B) contract is a construction agreement where the main contractor concurrently undertakes design and preconstruction activities, which especially through robust early contractor involvement (ECI) enhances quality, reduces cost through value engineering and identifies sustainability/net zero opportunities. 

D&B projects provide a streamlined construction process and single point of responsibility instead of separately hiring individual design team consultants, a contractor and supply chain. As a main contractor we manage the entire process delivering a project that meets or exceeds all client/end user objectives including quality specifications, budget, and timeline.

Having delivered £3.9 billion of D&B projects using a two-stage tendering process we are experts at this type of procurement and always favour this over a traditional single-stage tendering. Benefits of a two stage/ECI approach includes:

• better integration/collaboration between teams which leads to more aligned objectives, innovative solutions and joint risk mitigation/opportunity identification;
• instant communication, faster decision-making, and better response to design or construction issues that arise; 
• more fine-tuned design (which aligns with scope, specification and budget), improved buildability/logistics, enhanced quality (less defects/snags) by integrating early specialist supply chain knowledge;
• budget certainty with reduced cost increases due to less unexpected late-stage design changes;  
• faster project delivery due to preconstruction and procurement beginning before the design is finalised.

Following our appointment as D&B contractor, we consider the below essential factors for a successful two-stage procurement:

• Identify all stakeholders collective/individual ultimate objectives for the project by undertaking  focussed consultation and engagement;
• Establish project controls and define deliverables through a project execution plan (PEP), constant effective communication, controlled scope and comprehensive change control;
• Develop and agree the project programme to the appropriate level, clearly identifying the critical path with defined responsibilities to measure progress throughout the project;
• Achieve commercial transparency through collaborative cost control and open book reporting;
• Select the right team, give them the right level of support and develop a responsibility matrix.

With extensive experience in delivering Design and Build projects, our team offers:

• End-to-end management from design through completion
• Transparent budgeting and scheduling
• Skilled professionals committed to quality and innovation
• Tailored solutions that match your vision and objectives