DESIGN & BUILD

There are many reasons why Design/Build has become a preferred project delivery system. In a Design/Build project delivery system, there is a single source of responsibility between the owner and the Designer/Builder. This process eliminates multiple relationships between the owner, the contractors, and the designers. The owner has only one contractual relationship for the design and construction of the project. Design/Build relationships reduce design phase and construction phase time cycles due to the dual track design and construction approach. Design/Build also reduces overall cost since project costs can be identified early in the design phase allowing the design to be revised to reflect budget goals. Final designs do not typically need to be Value Engineered since budgetary concerns are addressed throughout the design process. Design/Build inherently provides higher quality and value since the singular responsibility serves as a motivator for improved project performance. RAPP's approach to Design/Build is to outsource appropriate Architects, Engineers, Designers, and consultants who are specialists in the type of project being considered. Qualified contractors and subcontractors are typically selected early on and are involved in the design phase and pre construction phase. Instead of utilizing low bid firms with little knowledge of the project, RAPP negotiates prices with these qualified contractors who have had involvement in the design process, understand the cost, timing, and quality requirements of the project and are part of the project team.