The integrated project delivery method fosters early collaboration, minimizing surprises and enhancing efficiency at the core of your business.
We all want a smooth and efficient project process, whether you’re leading a design team or are a developer, owner, project partner, or construction contractor. One way we’ve found to preempt issues is by utilizing the integrated design project delivery method, which establishes early and frequent communication and collaboration.
Predictability isn’t a given in the AEC world. Designers, engineers, and general contractors gather estimates, build schedules, and procure materials to gain as much certainty as they can before a project launches. Countless factors can derail even the most detailed plans, however. Supply chain issues, labor availability, and even pandemics can throw plans into disarray.
With design-bid-build, sometimes referred to as a traditional delivery method, a project unfolds in three distinct, sequenced phases with separate contracts for each. In design-build, the project owner has a single point of contact, and one contract covers design and construction. Design and construction parties work together from the beginning.
Integrated design takes design-build a step further, bringing all responsible parties to the table at project initiation. The parties stay involved and participate in every phase of the construction process. Rather than each project phase occurring consecutively, sequencing happens simultaneously because all parties, from the general contractor to trades, are involved at every step.
This method can minimize surprises, increase efficiencies, and spur innovative ideas along the way, because each discipline validates the methods and decisions as the project unfolds. Our staff say it provides a system of checks and balances that yields cost savings because issues are caught early on. Having contractors and subcontractors look at designs as they’re developed means they have input on drawings when it has the most impact – before construction begins.
With contractors and subcontractors at the table, they can review the architecture, codes, life and safety aspects, and building materials. A framer’s input, for example, can identify a better nail, strapping, or wood type to minimize change orders or help control long lead times by choosing different materials.
In Boise, Andersen Construction and Cushing Terrell partnered on the 10th and Main historic renovation project. The project included a full replacement of mechanical and electrical systems, as well as a new elevator and life safety provisions, bringing the building into the 21st century in terms of comfort, safety, security, and accessibility. The project added a rooftop deck and reopened previously closed off street-level access. The ground floor now encompasses a coffee shop, bodega, restaurant, and salon, and it provides cohesion throughout the “micro” neighborhoods along Main Street.
The award-winning project is a great example of successful integrated design. The project was delivered on time and on budget, as the integrated project delivery method caught potential issues early on, mitigating risk of change-orders. It also led to a deepened relationship with the construction partner and additional projects with them, including their own offices.
Whatever the project delivery method, it’s critical the people involved know their business and work well together. At Cushing Terrell, not only have we embraced a multi-disciplinary service offering, but we’ve also successfully partnered with builders for years by working together proactively from the very onset of any project. Building those relationships and establishing trust with project partners is key to establishing trust and confidence in your clients, realizing successful projects, and earning subsequent work.
Josh Hersel is an associate principal at Cushing Terrell and leads the firm’s multi-family residential and mixed-use development projects. Connect with him on LinkedIn.
